JP2002236537A - Data input device and method, program, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the operability for inputting character symbols. SOLUTION: Data regarding a plurality of screens are stored. In those screens, character symbols ('a', 'ka', 'sa', 'ta', 'na' series 31) which are arrayed in specific array order are displayed and at lest one (enlarged character 33) of the character symbols is displayed by a specific display method different from others. Here, a display control means selects and reads out data regarding each picture among the stored data according to 1st operation done by a user and displays the screen corresponding to the data on a display 2. Then when the user does 2nd operation, a determining means determines as a character symbol to be inputted one specific character symbol (input candidate character 32) of at least one character symbol (enlarged character 33) displayed by the specific display method in the screen displayed on the display 2.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a data input device,
The present invention relates to a data input method, a program, and a storage medium, and particularly to a data input device that is held by one hand and inputs data by operating a dial and keys with a finger, a data input method applied to the data input device, and the data input method. And a storage medium storing the program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a data input terminal for inputting data by operating a dial or key with one hand while holding it with one hand, for example, JP-A-11-8672 and JP-A-11-86
An apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 73 is known. In this device, a rotary dial is installed on the surface of the main body, and alphabets are displayed in alphabetical order (AB -...- Z) or (ZY -...- A) one character at a time in accordance with the rotation of the dial. The input character is determined by pressing the dial when the desired character is displayed.

In the data input terminal disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-283879, a line feed key and a jog dial are provided, and the line feed key is used to control the (Arc-Asa).
Turn the jog dial and press the jog dial to select the input character (A-I-E-A-O) from the character group (Ai-Weo) of the selected line (for example, A-line). Had gone.

In the portable radio device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 5-3506, a rotary knob is operated to select an alphabet and to input characters. Turning the rotary knob to the right changes the alphabet from A to Z in descending order, and turning to the left changes the alphabet from Z to A in ascending order. When the dial font to be entered was displayed, the enter button was pressed to confirm the input character.

In the portable information terminal disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-196727, a control dial that is rotatable and slidable in the direction of the rotation axis is provided. , Sa,
.., And the control dial is slid in the direction of the rotation axis to select a vowel portion, thereby inputting characters.

[0006] In mobile phones and the like, it has been practiced to select a consonant using about ten push buttons and select a vowel by repeatedly tapping the selected push buttons.

[0007]

However, the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Nos. 11-8672 and 11-8673 disclose the above.
In the data input terminal disclosed in the Japanese Patent Publication, input candidate characters are displayed one by one according to the rotation of the dial.
There is a problem that it is difficult to understand the position of the displayed character in the entire input character group, and it is difficult to know in which direction and how much the dial should be turned until the desired character is displayed.

In the data input terminal disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-283879, (A)
The cursor is lined up with a cursor and the input characters (A-I-W-A) are turned by pressing and rotating the jog dial from the character group (Ai-Weo) of the line (for example, A-line) selected and displayed.
Since the selection of (E) is performed, it is necessary to switch between different operations of pressing the line feed key and rotating and pressing the jog dial to input one character, and alternately move a finger to the position of the line feed key and the jog dial. However, there is a problem that the operation is complicated. Further, when the line feed is performed by using the line feed key, the line content is displayed only one line at a time (for example, eyewear). There is a problem that the position in the entire character group is difficult to understand.

In the portable wireless device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 5-3506, input candidate characters are displayed one by one in accordance with the rotation of the knob. There is a problem that the position is difficult to understand, and it is difficult to know in which direction and how much the dial should be turned until the desired character is displayed.

In the portable information terminal disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-196727, the control dial is rotated to select a consonant part (for example, select the “KA” line), and the “KA” displayed on the display is displayed. ”,“ Ki ”,
The desired character in "KU", "KE", and "KO" is selected by sliding the control dial in the direction of the rotation axis. This device has a problem that a large movement of the finger is required in selecting a small number of vowels than in selecting a large number of consonants.

In the above-mentioned method of selecting a vowel by selecting a consonant by using a large number of push buttons and repeatedly hitting it in the portable telephone, it is necessary to look at the push button at hand when selecting a consonant. was there.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a data input device, a data input method, and a storage medium which have improved input operability when inputting characters and symbols. Aim.

[0013]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed in response to a first operation by a user. Display control means for controlling the display of the display device so that at least one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and when a second operation is performed by the user Determining means for determining a predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device as a character symbol to be input. Is provided.

According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of character symbols in each of the plurality of groups are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order in response to the first operation by the user. A display control means for displaying on the display device one of each of the plurality of character symbols so as to be displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and a second control by the user.
Determining means for determining a character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device when the operation is performed, as a character symbol to be input. An apparatus is provided.

According to the seventeenth aspect, in accordance with the first operation by the user, a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed, and each one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed. Display control means for displaying on a display device such that one is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and the predetermined display method on a screen displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user And a determination unit for determining the character symbol indicated by (1) as a character symbol to be input.

According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of upper character symbols constituting the upper hierarchy are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order in response to the first operation by the user, and
At least one of each of the plurality of upper-level character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and further,
Display control means for causing a display device to display one of a plurality of lower-order character symbols belonging to the displayed at least one upper-order character symbol, and the display when a second operation is performed by a user There is provided a data input device comprising: a determination unit for determining a lower-order character symbol displayed on the device as a character symbol to be input.

According to the invention described in claim 32, in the data input method applied to the data input device provided with the display device, a plurality of data input devices arranged in a predetermined arrangement order in accordance with the first operation of the user. Is displayed, and
A display control step of controlling display of the display device so that at least one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others, and the display is performed when a second operation is performed by a user. Determining a predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed on the screen displayed on the apparatus by the predetermined display method as a character symbol to be input. Provide an input method.

According to the thirty-ninth aspect of the present invention, in the data input method applied to the data input device provided with the display device, a plurality of groups in each group among the plurality of groups are operated according to the first operation of the user. A display control step of displaying the character symbols in a predetermined arrangement order and displaying the character symbols on the display device such that one of the character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other. Determining a character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on a screen displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user as a character symbol to be input. A featured data input method is provided.

According to the invention described in claim 41, in the data input method applied to the data input device provided with the display device, a plurality of characters arranged in a predetermined arrangement order according to the first operation of the user. A display control step of displaying a symbol on the display device such that each one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and a second operation by the user. Determining a character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device at the time of the input as a character symbol to be input. .

According to the invention described in claim 42, in the data input method applied to the data input device provided with the display device, a plurality of upper character symbols constituting the upper hierarchy according to the first operation of the user. Are displayed side by side in a predetermined arrangement order, at least one of the plurality of upper character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and further, the displayed at least one upper character is displayed. A display control step of causing the display device to display one of a plurality of lower character symbols belonging to the symbol, and a lower character displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user Determining a symbol as a character symbol to be input.

Further, according to the invention of claim 47,
In a computer-readable storage medium storing a data input method applied to a data input device having a display device as a program, the data input method is arranged in a predetermined arrangement order according to a first operation of a user. A plurality of character symbols arranged in a row are displayed, and a display control step of controlling display of the display device so that at least one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other. A predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device when the second operation is performed by the user as a character symbol to be input. And a determining step of determining.

According to a fifty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in a computer-readable storage medium storing a data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device as a program, the data input method is executed by a user. In accordance with the first operation, a plurality of character symbols in each group among the plurality of groups are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order, and one of the plurality of character symbols is different from the others. A display control step of causing the display device to display the image so that the image is displayed by a predetermined display method, and displaying the image by the predetermined display method on a screen displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user. Determining a character symbol as a character symbol to be input.

According to a fifty-sixth aspect of the present invention, in a computer-readable storage medium storing a data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device as a program, the data input method is executed by a user. In response to the first operation, a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed, and one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others. A display control step of displaying on the display device, and a character symbol to be input, the character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user. And a deciding step of deciding as.

According to a fifty-seventh aspect of the present invention, in a computer-readable storage medium storing a data input method applied to a data input device having a display device as a program, the data input method is executed by a user. In accordance with the first operation, a plurality of upper character symbols constituting the upper hierarchy are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order, and at least one of the plurality of upper character symbols is different from the others. A display control step of causing the display device to display each one of a plurality of lower character symbols belonging to the at least one upper character symbol displayed, and A determination step for determining the lower-level character symbol displayed on the display device when the second operation is performed as a character symbol to be input. Providing a storage medium characterized by having a flop.

Still further, according to the invention of claim 62, in a program for executing a data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, the data input method is adapted to be performed by a user's first operation. Accordingly, a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed,
A display control step of controlling display of the display device so that at least one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others, and the display is performed when a second operation is performed by a user. Determining a predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the device as a character symbol to be input. I will provide a.

According to the 63rd aspect of the present invention, in a program capable of executing a data input method applied to a data input device having a display device, the data input method includes the steps of: A plurality of character symbols in each group among the plurality of groups are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order, and one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other. A display control step of displaying on the display device, and a character symbol to be input, the character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user. And a determining step of determining as.

According to a sixty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in a program capable of executing a data input method applied to a data input device having a display device, the data input method includes the steps of: A display control step of displaying a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order, and displaying the plurality of character symbols on the display device such that each one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others. And determining a character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device when the user performs the second operation, as a character symbol to be input. A program characterized by the following is provided.

According to a sixty-fifth aspect of the present invention, in a program capable of executing a data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, the data input method includes the steps of: A plurality of upper character symbols constituting the upper hierarchy are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order, and at least one of the plurality of upper character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, respectively. A display control step of displaying one of a plurality of lower character symbols belonging to the displayed at least one upper character symbol on the display device so as to be displayed, and when a second operation is performed by a user. Determining a lower-level character symbol displayed on the display device as a character symbol to be input.

[0029]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is an external view showing an external configuration of a data input terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, a display 2 for displaying data, a power key 4 for turning on / off the power, a menu key 5 for selecting a menu, and a plurality of switches are integrally provided on the main body 1. A cursor key 6 for moving the cursor and instructing kana-kanji conversion;
A clear key 7 for deleting or reversing data, a confirmed line feed key 8 for confirming a kana-kanji conversion result, a menu selection result, and a line feed, and cycling between a kana input mode, a roman alphabet input mode, and a numeric input mode. And a character input dial 10 for rotating the dial to select an input character, depressing the dial, and inputting the selected character. In addition, the character input guide 3 is always displayed on the display 2 so that the user can understand the character input mode and the input candidate characters according to each character input mode. The user turns the character input dial 10 with a finger while viewing the character input guide 3 to select an input character, and presses the dial when a desired input candidate character is displayed in the character input guide 3 to determine the input character. And enter characters.

FIG. 2 is an external view of the data input terminal showing the size of each part of the data input terminal.

As shown in FIG. 2, the size of the main body 1 of the present apparatus is 119.0 mm in length × 39.0 mm in width. The display 2 is 40.0 mm long × 33.0 mm wide. Power key 4, Menu key 5, Clear key 7
, The line feed key 8 and the mode key 9 are 5.0 mm long.
X It is an ellipse of 8.5 mm in width. The cursor key 6 is a circle having a diameter of 13.0 mm. The character input dial 10 is a circle having a diameter of 25.0 mm. As shown in FIG. 3, all of these operation keys are arranged near the center of the main body 1 so that the user can operate the apparatus with one thumb when holding the apparatus with one hand. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state where the user holds the data input terminal with one hand.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical internal configuration of the data input terminal.

As shown in FIG. 4, the present apparatus comprises a display 2, a character input guide storage unit 18 storing display data of the character input guide 3, a power key 4, a menu key 5, a cursor key 6, a clear key 7, a confirmation key. Line feed key 8, mode key 9, character input dial 10, CP for controlling the entire apparatus
U11, a RAM 12 for temporarily storing input text data being edited and the like, a ROM 13, a display control unit 14, a text editing unit 15, a kana-kanji conversion unit 16, and a dictionary 17.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the character input dial 10, and FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the character input dial 10 as viewed from the side.

As shown in the figure, a plurality of support rollers 2 erected on a dial mounting base 27
1, the rotation detecting roller 22 is inscribed in the dial body 20, and the rotation angle of the dial body 20 is detected by a rotary encoder 26 connected to the rotation detecting roller 22. Further, a leaf spring 24 is installed on the dial mounting base 27 via the leaf spring mounting base 23, and when the dial body 20 rotates, a click feeling generating projection 25 installed on the back of the dial body 20 has a configuration described later. By touching the leaf spring 24 having the following, a weak click feeling is generated. The dial mounting board 27 is installed on the main body 1 via a plurality of push buttons 28.
When the push button 28 is pressed, a click feeling is generated and the switch is turned on. Therefore, when the dial body 20 is pressed with a finger, a click feeling is generated and the pressing of the dial is detected.

FIG. 7 is a plan view showing the structure of the leaf spring 24. As shown in FIG.

Each of the leaf springs 24 has twelve ridges 24a and cutout grooves 24b, so that a weak clicking sensation is generated every time the dial body 20 rotates by an angle of 30 degrees.

FIG. 8 is a view showing a mechanism in which a click feeling is generated by the leaf spring 24 when the dial body 20 rotates.

When the dial body 20 rotates, the click feeling generating projection 25 integrally added to the back side of the dial body 20 moves from the notch groove 24b of the leaf spring 24 to the adjacent notch groove 24b via the mountain-like portion 24a. The click resilience of the leaf spring 24 causes a weak click feeling. It should be noted that the push button 28 shown in FIG. 6 is not turned on with a force enough to rotate the dial body 20.

Next, the text editing processing in the present apparatus will be described in association with a user operation based on a flowchart. The text editing process is executed when the user operates the cursor key 5, the clear key 6, the confirmed line feed key 8, the mode key 9, and the character input dial 10. CPU 11, RAM 12, ROM 13, display control unit 14, text editing unit 15, kana-kanji conversion unit 16,
In the dictionary 17 and the character input guidance storage unit 18, a text editing process is performed according to a user operation, and the result is displayed on the display 2. In the text editing process, processes such as moving a cursor, deleting characters, converting kana-kanji characters, selecting conversion candidates, and line feeds are performed by generally known methods. The kana character input process (FIG. 9), the Roman alphabet input process (FIG. 18), and the numeric input process (FIG. 25) by the operation of No. 10 will be described.

FIG. 10 is a view showing a general display screen displayed on the display 2 in the kana character input processing (FIG. 9).

On the display 2, a cursor 41 and a character input guide 3 for kana are displayed. The character input guidance 3 for kana is composed of a list of the first characters in each line of the hiragana syllabary "Akasana hanayara point" (hereinafter referred to as an "akasana column" 31) and an input candidate character 32 (here, "a "). In addition, in the dashed column 31, the font of the first character of the line including the input candidate character 32 is displayed in an enlarged manner (hereinafter, this is referred to as "enlarged character" 3).
3), and an input candidate character 32 (here, “A”) is attached and displayed at the upper right.

FIGS. 11 to 13 show the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 10 in the kana character input processing (here, θ is positive in the clockwise direction) and the character input displayed according to the rotation angle θ. It is a figure showing relation with guidance 3.

As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, α (= θ
mod 2160), the character input dial 1
Each time 0 is rotated by 30 degrees, the character input guide 3 (= red row 31 + input candidate character 32) is sequentially switched and displayed. For example, if the user rotates the character input dial 10 clockwise by 50 degrees (θ = 50, α = 50), the enlarged character 33 in the row 31 is “A”, and the input candidate character 32 is “I”. (FIG. 14). If the user rotates the character input dial 10 by 400 degrees counterclockwise (θ = −400, α = 1760), the row 3
The enlarged character 33 in 1 is "ra" and the input candidate character 32
Becomes “re” (FIG. 15).

When the character input dial 10 is rotated clockwise, as shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, when the enlarged character 33 is "A" in the character input guide 3, the input candidate character 32 is switched in the order of “A → I → U → E → O → ぁ (Small) → ぃ (Small) → ぅ (Small) → ぇ (Small) → ぉ (Small) → T (Small) → ー” Is displayed. Furthermore, when the character input dial 10 is rotated clockwise, the enlarged character 33 becomes “KA” in the character input guide 3 and the input candidate character 32 is displayed in the upper right corner as “KA → KI → KU → KE →
This is switched and displayed in this order. Further, when the character input dial 10 is rotated counterclockwise, the input candidate character 32 is displayed in the upper right of the character input guide 3 while the enlarged character 33 remains “か”. →? "
Are sequentially switched and displayed. Further, when the character input dial 10 is rotated counterclockwise, the enlarged character 33 becomes "A" in the character input guide 3, and the input candidate character 32 is displayed in the upper right of the character "-→ tsu (small) → ぉ (small). ) → ぇ (small)
→ ぅ (Small) → ぃ (Small) → ぁ (Small) → O → E → U → I →
"A" is sequentially switched and displayed. Further, when the character input dial 10 is rotated counterclockwise, the enlarged character 33 becomes a "dot" in the character input guide 3, and the input candidate character 32 is displayed at the upper right thereof as "blank →: →; →! →? → .
→, ”are displayed sequentially.

The user rotates the character input dial 10 clockwise or counterclockwise to select a line containing a desired character while looking at the enlarged character 33 in the dashed column 31. Input candidate character 3 to be displayed
When a desired character is displayed while looking at 2, the character input dial 10 is pressed to input a character.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the kana character input process. Here, the kana character input process will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17 taking a case where the user inputs “kanji” as an example. FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 are views showing a series of display screens of the display 2 when "kanji" is input in the kana character input process.

First, in step S101, character input guidance 3
(Akatana column 31 + input candidate character 32) is displayed on the display 2 (FIG. 16A). The user rotates the character input dial 10 until the desired character “ka” is displayed as the input candidate character 32.

In step S102, it is determined whether or not to terminate the kana character input process. If not, in step S103, it is determined whether or not the dial is operated (rotated or pressed). If it is determined that the dial is operated (rotated or pressed), and if the operation is rotated, the rotation angle of the dial is detected in step S104, and in step S105, the character input guide 3 is displayed in accordance with the detected rotation angle. Switch to Fig. 16
It is displayed as shown in (1) to (7). Then, the process returns to step S102.

When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character "?" Is displayed as the input candidate character 32, the steps S102 to S103 to the step S102 are executed.
Proceeding to 106, the character "?" Displayed in the input candidate character 32 is determined as an input character, and is displayed at the position of the cursor 41 as shown in FIG.

Next, the desired character "n" is input candidate character 3
When the user rotates the character input dial 10 (for example, counterclockwise) until the character is displayed in step S2, the process proceeds to step S10.
2, Step S103, Step S104, Step S
At 105, the character input guide 3 is switched, and FIG.
6 (8) to (9) are displayed. When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character "n" is displayed as the input candidate character 32, step S1 is performed.
02, the character "n" is determined as an input character in steps S103 and S106, and is displayed as shown in FIG. 17 (10).

Next, when the user rotates the character input dial 10 until the desired character "shi" is displayed as the input candidate character 32, step S102, step S103,
In steps S104 and S105, the character input guide 3 is switched and displayed as shown in FIGS. 17 (10) to (11). When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character "shi" is displayed as the input candidate character 32, step S102, step S1
03, the character "shi" is determined as an input character in step S106, and is displayed as shown in FIG. 17 (12).

Finally, when the user rotates the character input dial 10 until the desired character "@ (Dakuten)" is displayed as the input candidate character 32, step S102, step S102
In step 103, step S104, and step S105, the character input guide 3 is switched, and FIG.
It is displayed as shown in (13). When the user presses the character input dial 10 at the time when the desired character “表示” is displayed as the input candidate character 32, the characters (“゛” + “）” =) “ji” in step S102, step S103, and step S106. Is determined as an input character,
It is displayed as shown in FIG.

As described above, the input candidate character 32,
By displaying and presenting the position of the input candidate character 32 in the entire Hiragana area (Akatama hanayama point) in an easy-to-understand manner to the user using the character input guide 3, the user can turn the character input dial 10 in any direction. It is clear whether the user should rotate the dial to a certain extent, and the simple operation of rotating and pressing the dial enables the input of Hiragana characters only by moving the finger within a narrow range.

Next, the Roman character input processing (FIG. 18) will be described.

FIGS. 19 and 20 are views showing a general display screen displayed on the display 2 in the Roman character input processing.

In FIG. 19, the display 2 displays a cursor 41 and a character input guide 3 for capital letters, and the input candidate character 32 (here, “D”) in the character input guide 3 is displayed in a font. Is displayed enlarged. FIG.
In the display 2, a cursor 41 and a character input guide 3 for small letters are displayed on the display 2, and the input candidate characters 32 (here, "b") in the character input guide 3 are displayed in an enlarged font. Is done.

In the Roman character input process, uppercase character input guide 3 (FIG. 19) and lowercase character input guide 3 (FIG. 20) according to the rotation angle of character input dial 10.
Are switched and displayed, and the font of the input candidate character 32 is enlarged and displayed.

FIGS. 21 to 23 show the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 10 in the Roman alphabet input processing (here, θ is a clockwise direction being positive) and the character input guidance displayed according to the rotation angle θ. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a relationship with No. 3;

As shown in the figure, α (= θ mod 21
60), each time the character input dial 10 is turned by 30 degrees, the character input guide 3 and the input candidate characters 3 therein
2 are sequentially switched and displayed. For example, if the user rotates the character input dial 10 clockwise by 100 degrees (θ = 100, α = 100), the input candidate character 32 “D” in the uppercase character input guide 3 expands the font. Is displayed (FIG. 19). If the user rotates the character input dial 10 clockwise by 1120 degrees (θ = 11
20, α = 1120), and the input candidate character 32 “b” in the character input guide 3 for small letters is displayed with the font enlarged (FIG. 20).

As the character input dial 10 is rotated clockwise, as shown in FIGS. 21 to 23, in the character input guide 3 for capital letters, the input candidate character 32 is changed from “A → B”.
→ C →... → Z ”and the font is sequentially enlarged and displayed.
Further, when the character input dial 10 is rotated clockwise, in the character input guide 3 for small letters, the input candidate characters 32 are enlarged and displayed in the order of “a → b → c →... Z”. You. Further, when the character input dial 10 is rotated counterclockwise, the character input guide 3 for capital letters is displayed.
In, the input candidate character 32 is “Z → Y → X →.
"A" and the font is sequentially enlarged, and in the character input guide 3 for lowercase letters, the input candidate character 32 is changed to "z → y".
→ x →... A ”are sequentially enlarged and displayed.

The user rotates the character input dial 10 and looks at the character input guide 3 while watching the desired input candidate character 3.
When the character 2 is enlarged and displayed, the character input dial 10 is pressed to input a character.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the Roman character input process. Here, referring to FIG.
The Roman character input process will be described with an example where the user inputs “Cat”. FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a series of display screens of the display 2 when “Cat” is input in the Roman alphabet input process.

First, in step S201, input candidate character 3
The character input guide 3 obtained by enlarging 2 is displayed on the display 2 (FIG. 24A). The user operates the character input dial 1 until the desired character “C” is displayed as the input candidate character 32.
Rotate 0.

In step S202, it is determined whether or not the Roman character input processing is to be terminated. If not, in step S203, it is determined whether or not the dial is operated (rotated or pressed). If it is determined that the dial is operated (rotated or pressed), and if the operation is rotated, the rotation angle of the dial is detected in step S204, and in step S205, the character input guide 3 is displayed in accordance with the detected rotation angle. Switch to Fig. 24
As shown in (1) to (3), the input candidate character 32 in which the font in the character input guide 3 is enlarged and displayed changes. Then, the process returns to step S202.

When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character "C" is enlarged and displayed, the process proceeds from steps S202 to S203 to step S206, where the character "C" is determined as the input character, and FIG. It is displayed at the position of the cursor 41 as shown in 4).

Next, the desired character "a" is input candidate character 3
When the user rotates the character input dial 10 until the character input dial 10 is enlarged and displayed as 2, Step S 202 and Step S 2
03, in steps S204 and S205,
Character input guidance 3 switches from uppercase to lowercase,
The font of the input candidate character 32 in the character input guide 3 is enlarged and displayed (FIGS. 24 (4) to (5)). When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character "a" is displayed in an enlarged manner, step S202, step S2
03, the character "a" is determined as an input character in step S206, and is displayed as shown in FIG.

Finally, when the user rotates the character input dial 10 until the desired character “t” is enlarged and displayed as the input candidate character 32, step S 202, step S 202
In step 203, step S204, and step S205, the font of the input candidate character 32 in the character input guide 3 is enlarged and displayed (FIGS. 24 (6) to (7)). When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character “t” is displayed in an enlarged manner, step S202, step S2
03, in step S206, the character "t" is determined as an input character, and is displayed as shown in FIG.

As described above, the input candidate character 32,
By displaying and presenting the position of the input candidate character 32 in the entire area of the Roman alphabet to the user in an easy-to-understand manner using the character input guide 3, the user can determine which direction and how much the character input dial 10 should be rotated. Understandably, the simple operation of rotating and pressing the dial allows you to input Roman characters by moving your finger within a narrow range.

Next, the numeral input processing (FIG. 25) will be described.

FIG. 26 is a view showing a general display screen displayed on the display 2 in the numeral input processing.

In FIG. 26, a cursor 41 and a character input guide 3 for numbers are displayed on the display 2, and the font of the input candidate character 32 (here, “3”) in the character input guide 3 is displayed. It is displayed enlarged.

FIG. 27 shows the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 10 in the numeral input processing (here, θ is assumed to be positive in the clockwise direction), and the input candidate characters 32 enlarged and displayed according to the rotation angle θ. FIG.

As shown in the figure, α (= θ mod 72
0) input candidate character 3 in character input guide 3 according to the value of 0)
2 are displayed in an enlarged font. For example, if the user rotates the character input dial 10 clockwise by 100 degrees (θ = 100, α = 100), the font of the input candidate character 32 (here, “4”) in the character input guide 3 for numbers is displayed. Is displayed enlarged.

When the character input dial 10 is rotated clockwise, in the character input guide 3 for numbers, the input candidate characters 32 are displayed in an enlarged font in the order of “1 → 2 → 3 →... → 0”. Is done. When the character input dial 10 is rotated counterclockwise, the input candidate character 32 becomes “0”.
→ 9 → 8 →... → 1 ”and the font is sequentially enlarged and displayed.

The user rotates the character input dial 10 and looks at the character input guide 3 while watching the desired input candidate character 3.
When the character 2 is enlarged and displayed, the character input dial 10 is pressed to input a character.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the numeral input process. Here, the numeral input process will be described with reference to FIG. 28, taking as an example a case where the user inputs "2 (blank) 7". FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating a series of display screens of the display 2 when “2 (blank) 7” is input in the multiple-order input process.

First, in step S301, input candidate character 3
The character input guide 3 obtained by enlarging 2 is displayed on the display 2 (FIG. 28 (1)). The user operates the character input dial 1 until the desired character “2” is displayed as the input candidate character 32.
Rotate 0.

In step S302, it is determined whether or not to terminate the number input process. If not, in step S303, it is determined whether or not the dial has been operated (rotated or pressed). If it is determined that the dial is operated (rotated or pressed), and if the operation is rotated, the rotation angle of the dial is detected in step S304, and the character input guide 3 is displayed in step S305 in accordance with the detected rotation angle. Switch to Fig. 28 (1) ~
As shown in (2), the input candidate character 32 in which the font in the character input guide 3 is enlarged and displayed changes. Then, the process returns to step S302.

When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character "2" is enlarged and displayed, the process proceeds from steps S302 to S303 to step S306, where the character "2" is determined as an input character, and FIG. It is displayed at the position of the cursor 41 as shown in 3).

Next, when the user rotates the character input dial 10 until the desired character “(blank)” is enlarged and displayed as the input candidate character 32, the character is turned on in steps S302, S303, S304, and S305. The fonts of the input candidate characters 32 of the input guide 3 are sequentially enlarged (FIGS. 28 (3) to (4)). When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character "(blank)" is displayed in an enlarged manner, the process proceeds to step S30.
2. In steps S303 and S306, the character "(blank)" is determined as an input character, and FIG.
It is displayed as shown in (5).

Finally, when the user rotates the character input dial 10 until the desired character “7” is enlarged and displayed as the input candidate character 32, step S302, step S302
In step 303, step S304, and step S305, the fonts of the input candidate characters 32 of the character input guide 3 are sequentially enlarged and displayed (FIGS. 28 (5) to (6)). When the user presses the character input dial 10 when the desired character “7” is displayed in an enlarged manner, step S302 and step S302 are performed.
In step 303 and step S306, the character “7” is determined as an input character, and is displayed as shown in FIG.

As described above, the input candidate characters 32 and
The user can turn the character input dial 10 in any direction and how much by displaying and presenting the position of the input candidate character 32 in the whole area of the numerals (and symbols) in an easy-to-understand manner using the character input guide 3. I understand whether it is good, and by a simple operation of turning and pressing the dial,
Just by moving your finger over a small area, you can enter numbers (and symbols).

Incidentally, in the first embodiment, FIGS. 11, 12, 13, 21, 22,
3. As shown in FIG. 27, the character input dial 10
Each time the character is rotated, the character input guide 3 and the input candidate characters 32 therein are sequentially switched and displayed. However, the character input guide 3 and the input candidate characters 32 therein are sequentially switched. The pitch of the rotation angle of the character input dial 10 is any angle (for example, 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 20 degrees)
It may be. Further, the character input guide 3 and the input candidate characters 32 therein may be sequentially switched and displayed according to the rotation speed or the rotational acceleration of the character input dial 10.

In place of the character input dial 10 in the first embodiment, a character selection dial 19a and a character determination key 19b as shown in FIG. 29 may be provided. FIG. 29 is an external view illustrating a data input terminal having a configuration different from that of the first embodiment.

That is, in the data input terminal shown in FIG. 29, the display 2, the power key 4, the menu key 5, the cursor key 6, the clear key 7, the confirm line feed key 8, and the mode key 9 are the same as those in the first embodiment. The same, but rotatable, character selection dial 19a for selecting input characters
And a character confirmation key 19b for confirming and inputting the selected character are different from those of the first embodiment.

The user selects an input character by turning the character selection dial 19a with a finger while looking at the character input guide 3.
When a desired input candidate character is displayed in the character input guide 3, the character is pressed by pressing the character determination key 19b.

In the data input terminal shown in FIG. 29, the character selection dial 19a and the character confirmation key 19b are separately provided. With this configuration, the operation of selecting the input character by rotating the character selection dial 19a and the operation of determining the input character by pressing the character determination key 19b can be separated, and the character input speed is reduced, but more reliable. Character input becomes possible.

Further, in the first embodiment, the size of the input candidate character 32 or the enlarged character 33 is enlarged and displayed so as to be identifiable. It may be displayed as possible.

Further, as shown in FIG. 30, the data input terminal according to the first embodiment is
2 and the display 2 so that they can communicate with each other. In this case, a power key 4, a menu key 5, a cursor key 6, a clear key 7, a confirmed line feed key 8, a mode key 9, and a character input dial 10 are provided on the remote control main body 42.

By separating the display 2 and the remote control main body 42 in this manner, when the display 2 is a television or the like, data can be remotely input to the television.

(Second Embodiment) FIG. 31 is a view showing the external appearance of a facsimile apparatus equipped with a data input device according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 31, in this facsimile apparatus, an operation board 102 and a paper feed tray 1
06 is arranged. A handy scanner 105 is detachably provided between the main body 101 and the operation board 102. Also, the detachable handset 10
4 is installed on the main body 101. Operation board 102
A display 103 is provided on the display.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the operation board 102. As shown in FIG.

On the operation board 102, a palm rest 121 for placing a palm, a mail key 128 for using a mail function, a telephone directory dial 129 for rotating and selecting a facsimile transmission destination from a telephone directory, and transmission. A start key 130 for starting facsimile transmission after selecting a destination, a stop key 131 for stopping facsimile transmission, and a telephone dial key 132 for inputting a telephone call destination or a facsimile transmission destination are arranged. Have been. The display 103 is the operation board 10
2, and function keys F1 to F4 are arranged below the screen. Function keys F1
F4 is for selecting various functions displayed at the bottom of the screen of the display 103.

The palm rest 121 on which the palm rests is formed substantially horizontally. A cursor key 122 for moving the cursor up, down, left, and right, instructing kana-kanji conversion, and a rotatable input character group are placed on the palm rest 121. A character input dial 123 for selecting a character, a continuous hit key 124 used for selecting an input character when pressed continuously, a determination key 125 used for determining a kana-kanji conversion candidate or a line feed, and a character A clear key 126 and a mode key 127 for cyclically switching between kana and alphabet input modes are arranged.

FIG. 33 shows a state in which the user is operating the operation board 102 with his right hand to input characters.

The user places his right palm on the palm rest 121, mainly using the cursor key 122 with the thumb, the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124 with the index finger, the enter key 125 with the middle finger, and the clear key 126 with the ring finger. The mode key 127 is operated with the little finger. It may be operated with another finger.

FIG. 34 is a block diagram showing main electric components in the facsimile apparatus, and the parts not related to the input of character data are not shown.

As shown in the figure, this apparatus uses the cursor key 1
22, character input dial 123, continuous hit key 124, enter key 125, clear key 126, mode key 127, mail key 128, telephone directory dial 129, start key 130, stop key 131, telephone dial key 13
2. Function key F1, function key F2, function key F3, function key F4, display 103, display processing unit 133, text editing unit 134, CPU 135, RAM 137, R
An OM 138 and a communication unit 139 are connected to the public network via the communication unit 139.

FIG. 35 is a plan view of the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124, and FIG. 36 is a sectional view of the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124 as viewed from the side.

As shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, the character input dial 123 is rotatably supported by a plurality of support rollers 152 erected on the operation board 102. The rotation detection roller 151 is inscribed in the character input dial 123, and the rotation angle of the character input dial 123 is detected by a rotary encoder 153 connected to the rotation detection roller 151.
The continuous hit key 124 is installed at the center of a hole at the center of the character input dial 123, and is installed on the operation board 102 via a hinge portion 156 having repulsive elasticity. A metal dome contact 154 having a rebound resilience and a fixed contact 155 are provided on the operation board 102 at a position directly below the continuous hit key 124. A projection 157 is integrally formed on the back surface of the continuous hit key 124.
Is pressed, the metal dome contact 154 is pressed via the protrusion 157, and the metal dome contact 154 is
55, the pressing of the continuous hit key 124 is detected, and a click feeling is generated by the rebound resilience of the hinge 156 and the metal dome contact 154. A slip prevention is formed on the surface of the character input dial 123.

FIGS. 37 and 46 show the display 10.
37 is a diagram showing a screen displayed in FIG. 3, FIG. 37 shows a kana input mode display, and FIG. 46 shows an alphabetical character input mode display.

At the time of character input, a cursor 141, an input navigation 142, and an input candidate character 143 are displayed on the display 103. At the positions corresponding to the function keys F1 to F4, the operation menu 144 is switched and displayed according to the operation of the user.

FIG. 38 shows the rotation angle θ (A = θ mod 72) of the character input dial 123 in the kana input mode.
0), an input navigation 142 to be displayed, and an input candidate character 143 to be displayed by continuous tapping.

The rotation angle θ is positive in the clockwise direction. For example, if the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 123 is 100 degrees, “Akatana hamawara stippling” is displayed in the input navigation 142, and the character “K” in the character is enlarged (or the color is changed). (Change). In this state, when the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed, the input candidate character 143 is changed to “ka → ki → ku → ke → ko → ga → gi → gu → ge → go →
The display is switched cyclically as "Ka → ki". For example, if the continuous hit key 124 is pressed three times while the rotation angle θ is 100 degrees, the input candidate character 143 becomes “ku”.
As described above, the user rotates the character input dial 123 to enter the input navigation 14 corresponding to the desired input character.
2 is selected, and the continuous hit key 124 is repeatedly pressed in the display state of the input navigation 142 to select the input candidate character 143.

FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a character input routine R400 which is such a character input process.
In text editing, in addition to character input, there are processes such as cursor movement, character deletion, and line feed. These processes are performed by a known method. Therefore, here, only character input will be described, and description of other processes will be omitted.

At step S401, the input navigation 142 is displayed. In step S402,
It is determined whether or not the character input processing has been completed, and if not, in step S403, the character input dial 1
It is determined whether or not 23 has been rotated by a certain angle (for example, 5 degrees) or more. If the character input dial 123 has been turned by a certain angle (for example, 5 degrees) or more, the process proceeds to step S404, and if not, the process proceeds to step S407.

In step S404, it is determined whether or not input candidate characters are being displayed. If the input candidate character is displayed, the process proceeds to step S405, and if not, the process proceeds to step S406. In step S405, the input candidate character is determined as an input character. In step S406, the input navigation 142 is switched and displayed according to the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 123.

On the other hand, in step S407, it is determined whether or not continuous hit key 124 has been pressed. If the continuous hit key 124 has been pressed, the next input candidate character 143 is displayed in step S408.

FIGS. 40 to 45 are diagrams showing the relationship between a series of operations performed by the user when inputting kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations. Here, a case where the user operates the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124 with an index finger to input a text of an e-mail or a facsimile destination is exemplified. For example, a case where "kanji" is input will be described.

First, the user operates the mail key 128 and the function keys F1 to F4 to shift to the text creation mode. Then, in step S401 of the character input routine R400, an input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

Character input dial 1 until input navigation 142 corresponding to the desired input character "ka" is displayed.
By turning 23, steps S402, S403, S40
After step S406, a new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

When the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "?" Is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S402, S403, S407 and S4 are performed.
08, the display 103 as shown in FIG.
Are displayed as input candidate characters 143.

Here, when the character input dial 123 is turned until the input navigation 142 corresponding to the desired input character "n" is displayed, steps S402, S403,
After S404 and S405, the character "?" Shown in FIG. 40 (3) is determined as an input character as the input candidate character 143. In step S406, a new input navigation 142 is displayed as shown in FIG. 41 (4). 103
Will be displayed.

When the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "n" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S402, S403, S407, S4
08, FIG. 41 (5), FIG. 41 (6) and FIG.
As shown in (7), the input candidate character 14 is displayed on the display 103.
3 is switched and displayed.

Here, if the character input dial 123 is turned until the input navigation 142 corresponding to the desired input character "ji" is displayed, steps S402, S403,
After S404 and S405, the character "n" shown in FIG. 42 (7) is determined as the input character as the input candidate character 143. In step S406, a new input navigation 142 is displayed as shown in FIG. 42 (8). 103
Will be displayed.

When the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "ji" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S402, S403, S407, S4
08, FIG. 42 (9), FIG. 43 (10), FIG.
(11), FIG. 43 (12), FIG. 44 (13), FIG.
(14) and the display 1 as shown in FIG.
03, the input candidate character 143 is switched and displayed.

If the character input dial 123 is turned counterclockwise about 60 degrees, steps S402 and S40 are performed.
After S3, S404, and S405, the character “ji” shown in FIG. 44 (15) is determined as an input character as the input candidate character 143, and a new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 45 (16). Will be displayed.

FIG. 47 shows the rotation angle θ (A = θ mod 72) of the character input dial 123 in the English character input mode.
0), the displayed input navigation 142, and the relationship between input candidate characters 143 displayed by repeated hits.

The rotation angle θ is positive in the clockwise direction. For example, if the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 123 is 250 degrees, “JKL MNO
PQRS Space "is displayed, and the letter" J "
"KL" is displayed by enlarging the font (or changing the color). When the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed in this state, the input candidate character 143 is changed to “j → k → l → J → K → L → j”.
→ k ”is cyclically switched and displayed. For example,
If the continuous hit key 124 is pressed twice while the rotation angle θ is 250 degrees, “k” becomes the input candidate character 143. For example, if the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 123 is 200 degrees,
The input navigation 142 includes “ABCDEF GHI
Space ”is displayed, and the character“ Spac
"e" is displayed by enlarging the font (or changing the color). In this state, when the continuous hit key 124 is pressed, "Spac
e (half-width space) "becomes the input candidate character 143. As described above, the user rotates the character input dial 123 to enter the input navigation 142 corresponding to the desired input character.
Is selected, and with the input navigation 142 displayed, the continuous hit key 124 is repeatedly pressed to select the input candidate character 143.

FIGS. 48 to 56 are views showing the relationship between a series of operations performed by the user when inputting alphabetic characters and the display screen displayed corresponding to the operations. Here, the user operates the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124 with the index finger to input the text of the e-mail or the name of the facsimile destination. For example, "De
The case where "sign" is input will be described as an example.

First, the user operates the mail key 128 and the function keys F1 to F4 to shift to the text creation mode. Then, in step S401 of the character input routine R400, an input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

Character input dial 1 until input navigation 142 corresponding to desired input character "D" is displayed
By turning 23, steps S402, S403, S40
After step S406, a new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

When the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "D" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S402, S403, S407, S4
08, FIG. 48 (3), FIG. 49 (4), FIG.
The display 103 as shown in (5) and FIG.
Are displayed as input candidate characters 143.

When the character input dial 123 is turned clockwise about 60 degrees, steps S402, S403,
After S404 and S405, the character “D” shown in FIG. 49 (6) is determined as an input character as the input candidate character 143, and a new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 50 (7). Is done.

When the character input dial 123 is turned until the input navigation 142 corresponding to the next desired input character "e" is displayed, steps S402, S403, S4
04 and S405, and in FIG.
A new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 like 0 (8).

If the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "e" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S402, S403, S407, S4
After 08, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 50 (9) and FIG. 51 (10).

Here, when the character input dial 123 is turned until the input navigation 142 corresponding to the next desired input character "s" is displayed, steps S402 and S40 are performed.
After S3, S404, and S405, the character "e" shown in FIG. 51 (10) is determined as an input character as the input candidate character 143, and in step S406, FIG.
, A new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103.

When the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "s" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S402, S403, S407, S4
08, FIG. 51 (12), FIG. 52 (13), FIG.
(14) and the display 1 as shown in FIG.
03, an input candidate character 143 is displayed.

Here, when the character input dial 123 is turned until the input navigation 142 corresponding to the next desired input character "i" is displayed, steps S402 and S40 are performed.
After S3, S404, and S405, the character "s" shown in FIG. 52 (15) is determined as an input character as the input candidate character 143, and in step S406, FIG.
, A new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103.

When the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "i" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S402, S403, S407, S4
After 08, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIGS. 53 (17), 53 (18) and 54 (19).

Turn character input dial 123 6
When turned about 0 degrees, steps S402, S403, S40
54, and S405, as input candidate characters 143 in FIG.
The character “i” shown in (19) is determined as an input character, and a new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

If the character input dial 123 is turned until the input navigation 142 corresponding to the next desired input character "g" is displayed, steps S402, S403, S4
04 and S405, and in FIG.
4 (21), a new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103.

When the continuous hit key 124 is pressed until the desired input character “g” is displayed as the input candidate character 143,
After steps S402, S403, S407, and S408, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

Here, if the character input dial 123 is turned until the input navigation 142 corresponding to the next desired input character "n" is displayed, steps S402 and S40 are performed.
After steps S3, S404 and S405, a new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 in step S406 as shown in FIG.

If the continuous hit key 124 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "n" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S402, S403, S407, S4
After 08, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 55 (24) and FIG. 56 (25).

Turn character input dial 123 6
When turned about 0 degrees, steps S402, S403, S40
4 and S405, and as input candidate characters 143 in FIG.
The character “n” shown in (25) is determined as an input character, and a new input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

As described above, in the second embodiment,
The user can easily input characters in the facsimile apparatus by simply turning the dial and repeatedly pressing keys while looking at the input navigation displayed on the display without looking at the hand.

In the second embodiment, the character input dial 123 may be configured as shown in FIGS.

FIG. 57 shows a character input dial 1 different from the character input dial 123 in the second embodiment.
It is an external view which shows the facsimile machine provided with 23b.

The character input dial 123b is rotatable and depressable by the user, and an input character group is selected by being rotated, and an input character is selected by being continuously pressed.

FIG. 58 is a plan view showing the structure of the character input dial 123b, and FIG.
It is sectional drawing which looked at 23b from the side surface.

As shown in the figure, the character input dial 123b
Is a plurality of support rollers 1 erected on the dial base 158.
52b, and is rotatably supported by the rotation detection roller 151b.
Is inscribed in the character input dial 123b, and the rotation angle of the character input dial 123b is detected by a rotary encoder 153b connected to the rotation detecting roller 151b. The dial base 158 has a hinge portion 156b having rebound resilience.
And a projection 157 b is integrally formed in the center of the back of the dial base 158. A metal dome contact 154b having repulsion resilience and a fixed contact 155b are provided on the operation board 102 immediately below the protrusion 157b.

When the character input dial 123b is pressed with a predetermined force or more, the metal dome contact 154b is pressed via the projection 157b, the metal dome contact 154b contacts the fixed contact 155b, and the character input dial 123b is pressed. Is detected, and a click feeling is generated by the rebound resilience of the hinge portion 156b and the metal dome contact 154b. The character input dial 123b can be freely rotated with the force required to turn the jog dial of the existing mobile phone, and can be pressed with the force required to press the push button of the existing mobile phone. Generate A non-slip is formed on the surface of the character input dial 123b.

As described above, in the character input dial 123b shown in FIGS. 57 to 59 as well, while looking at the input navigation displayed on the display without looking at the user's hand, simple finger rotation of the dial and continuous tapping of the dial are performed. By the operation described above, characters can be easily input in the facsimile apparatus.

It should be noted that the character input dial 123b is
It may be arranged at a position as shown in FIG. In this case, the character input dial 123b is mainly rotated with the thumb and then pressed to operate.

Thus, the character input dial may be located at any position on the palm rest. Alternatively, the palm rest may be formed in a curved shape so that the palm can be easily placed thereon, and the character input dial may be installed on the inclined surface of the palm rest so as to be easily operated with the thumb or other finger.

(Third Embodiment) FIG. 61 is a diagram showing the appearance of a portable telephone device equipped with a data input device according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 61, on the main body 160,
A power key 161 for turning on / off the power, a call key 162, a menu key 163 for displaying a menu list, a cursor key 164 for performing kana-kanji conversion and moving a cursor up, down, left and right, a kana-kanji conversion candidate Key 165 for confirming a character, a menu, or a line feed, a mode key 166 for cyclically switching the character input mode (Kana → Kana → Romaji → Numeric → Kana), deleting and undoing characters (Undo = A clear key 167 for performing (return to the original), a character input dial 168 for selecting an input character by rotating and pressing, and a display 169 are arranged.

The display 169 has a first input navigation 181 having display contents according to the character input mode.
Then, a second input navigation 182 having display contents according to the rotation angle of the character input dial 168 and an input candidate character 183 having display contents according to the number of times the character input dial 168 is pressed are displayed. A cursor 184 is displayed according to the text being edited.

The character input dial 168 has the same structure as the character input dial 123b shown in FIGS. 58 and 59, and rotates freely with the force required to turn the jog dial of an existing portable telephone. It can be pressed with the force required to press the push button of the mobile phone,
Generates a click feeling when pressed.

FIG. 62 is a diagram showing the size of the above-mentioned portable telephone device. The size of this device is 123.0 mm length x
The width is 39.0 mm, and the diameter of the character input dial 168 is 29.0 mm.

FIG. 63 is a diagram showing a state where the user holds the above-mentioned portable telephone device with one hand and mainly operates it with one thumb.

FIG. 64 is a block diagram showing the main electrical configuration of the above-mentioned portable telephone device. Illustration of parts not related to the input of character data is omitted.

As shown in the figure, this portable telephone device has a power key 161, a call key 162, a menu key 163, a cursor key 164, a decision key 165, a mode key 166,
Clear key 167, character input dial 168, display 169, CPU 170, ROM 171, RAM 17
2. It comprises a display control unit 173, a text editing unit 174, a microphone 175, a speaker 176, and a communication unit 177, and is connected to the public network via the communication unit 177.

FIG. 65 shows the rotation angle θ (A = θ mod 36) of the character input dial 168 in the kana input mode.
0), the displayed second input navigation 182,
It is a figure showing the relation with the input candidate character 183 displayed by repeated hits. The rotation angle θ is positive in the clockwise direction, and θ = 0 degrees at the position shown in FIG. FIG. 66 is a diagram illustrating the position of θ = 0 degrees of the character input dial 168 in the kana input mode.

For example, the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 168
If -90 degrees (A = 270 degrees), "Akagasaza Nana" is displayed on the second input navigation 182, and the character "A" in it expands the font (or color etc.). Is changed). When the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed in this state, the input candidate characters 183 are cyclically switched and displayed as “A → I → U → E → O → A → I”. For example, when the rotation angle θ is -9
When the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed three times in the state of 0 degrees, “U” becomes the input candidate character 183. In this manner, the user rotates the character input dial 168 to rotate the second input navigation 182 corresponding to a desired input character.
Is selected, and the character input dial 168 is repeatedly struck while the second input navigation 182 is displayed to select the input candidate character 183.

In the kana input mode, “Oh A1” is displayed on the first input navigation 181 and
The character "A" therein is displayed in an identifiable manner by enlarging the font (or changing the color or the like).

FIG. 67 shows the rotation angle θ (A = θ mod 36) of the character input dial 168 in the kana input mode.
0), the displayed second input navigation 182,
It is a figure showing the relation with the input candidate character 183 displayed by repeated hits. The rotation angle θ is positive in the clockwise direction, and θ = 0 degrees at the position shown in FIG. FIG. 68 is a diagram illustrating the position of θ = 0 degrees of the character input dial 168 in the kana input mode.

For example, the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 168
Is 170 degrees (A = 170 degrees), "Habapa Mayarawa point" is displayed on the second input navigation 182, and the character "YA" in it is identified by expanding the font (or changing the color etc.). Displayed as possible. When the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed in this state, the input candidate characters 183 are displayed while being cyclically switched from “Y → Y → Y → Y”. For example, when the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed twice while the rotation angle θ is 170 degrees, “Y” becomes the input candidate character 183. Thus, the user rotates the character input dial 168 to select the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the desired input character,
While the second input navigation 182 is displayed, the character input dial 168 is repeatedly hit to input candidate character 1
Select 83. In the kana input mode, "A A1" is displayed on the first input navigation 181 and the character "A" is displayed in an identifiable manner by enlarging the font (or changing the color or the like). .

FIG. 69 shows a state in the Roman alphabet input mode.
Rotation angle θ of character input dial 168 (A = θ mod
360) and the displayed second input navigation 182
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a relationship between and input candidate characters 183 displayed by repeated hits. The rotation angle θ is positive in the clockwise direction, and the position shown in FIG. 70 is θ = 0 degrees. FIG. 70 shows the θ of the character input dial 168 in the Roman character input mode.
It is a figure which shows the position of = 0 degree.

For example, the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 168
Is 30 degrees (A = 30 degrees), “TUV WXYZ!?,;” Is displayed on the second input navigation 182, and the character group “TUV” in the characters is enlarged (or color etc.). Is changed). When the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed in this state, the input candidate character 183 is changed to “t → u → v → T → U →
V → t → u ”is displayed cyclically. For example, when the rotation angle θ is 30 degrees, the character input dial 168
Is pressed four times in succession, “T” becomes the input candidate character 183
become. In this way, the user can enter the character input dial 168.
Is rotated to select the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the desired input character, and the character input dial 168 is displayed with the second input navigation 182 displayed.
To select an input candidate character 183. In the Roman alphabet input mode, “A A1” is displayed on the first input navigation 181 and the character “A” in the first input navigation 181 is enlarged (or changed in color).
It is displayed so that it can be identified.

FIG. 71 shows the rotation angle θ (A = θ mod 36) of the character input dial 168 in the number input mode.
0), the displayed second input navigation 182,
It is a figure showing the relation with the input candidate character 183 displayed by repeated hits. The rotation angle θ is positive in the clockwise direction, and the position shown in FIG. 72 is θ = 0 degrees. FIG. 72 is a diagram showing the position of θ = 0 degrees of character input dial 168 in the number input mode.

For example, the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 168
Is 170 degrees (A = 170 degrees), “Space Clear Return” is displayed in the second input navigation 182.
n ”is displayed, and the character“ Retur
"n" is displayed in an identifiable manner by enlarging the font (or changing the color or the like). In this state, the character input dial 16
When “8” is pressed, “Return (line feed)” is input. Further, for example, if the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 168 is 30 degrees (A = 30 degrees), “* 123456890 #” is displayed on the second input navigation 182, and the character “7” therein is used as the font. It is displayed in an identifiable manner by enlarging (or changing the color, etc.) When the character input dial 168 is pressed in this state, "7" is input. In the number input mode, "A A1" is displayed on the first input navigation 181 and the character "1" is displayed in an identifiable manner by enlarging the font (or changing the color or the like). .

FIG. 73 is a flowchart showing a character input routine R500 which is a character input process in such various character input modes. In text editing, in addition to character input, there are processes such as cursor movement, character deletion, and line feed. However, here, only character input will be described, and other processes are well-known, and thus description thereof will be omitted.

At step S501, the second input navigation 182 is displayed. In step S502, it is determined whether or not the character input process has been completed. If not, in step S503, the character input dial 1
It is determined whether or not 68 has rotated a predetermined angle (for example, 3 degrees) or more. If the character input dial 168 has rotated a predetermined angle or more, the process proceeds to step S504, and if not, the process proceeds to step S507.

In step S504, input candidate character 1
It is determined whether or not 83 is displayed. If the input candidate character 183 is displayed, the process proceeds to step S505; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S506. In step S505, the input candidate character 183 is determined as an input character. In step S506, the second input navigation 182 is switched and displayed according to the rotation angle θ of the character input dial 168.

If it is determined in step S503 that the character input dial 123 has not been rotated by a certain angle or more, then in step S507 the character input dial 1
68 is determined. If the character input dial 168 is pressed, the next input candidate character 1 is determined in step S508.
83 is displayed.

FIGS. 74 to 77 are diagrams showing the relationship between the user's operation when inputting characters and the display screen displayed in response to the operation. Here, it is assumed that the user operates the character input dial 168 with the thumb to input the text of the e-mail. For example, a case where "character data (line feed) B (half-width space) 1" is input will be described as an example.

First, the user operates the menu key 163, the cursor key 164, and the enter key 165 to shift to the text creation mode. Then, in step S501 of the character input routine R500, the first input navigation 181 and the second input navigation 1 are displayed on the display 169.
82 is displayed as shown in FIG. 74 (1). In the kana input mode, the font of the character "a" in "a A1" is enlarged and displayed on the first input navigation 181.

When the character input dial 168 is turned until the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the desired input character "MO" is displayed, steps S502, S503, and S5 are performed.
04 and S506, a new second input navigation 182 is displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG. 74 (2).

When the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed down until the desired input character “MO” is displayed as the input candidate character 183, steps S502, S503, and S50 are performed.
7 and S508, the input candidate character 183 is displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIGS. 74 (3), 74 (4), 74 (5), 74 (6) and 74 (7). .

Here, when the character input dial 168 is turned until the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the next desired input character "ji" is displayed, steps S502 and S502 are performed.
503, S504, S505, the input candidate character 18
The character “mo” shown in FIG. 74 (7) is determined as an input character as 3, and a new second input navigation 182 is displayed on the display 169 in step S506 as shown in FIG. 74 (8).

When the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed down until the desired input character "ji" is displayed as the input candidate character 183, steps S502, S503 and S50 are performed.
7, S508, and FIG. 74 (9) and FIG.
0) as shown in FIG.
Is switched and displayed.

Here, when the user presses the “↓” key of the cursor key 164, a kana-kanji conversion process is performed.
A list of conversion candidates is displayed as shown in FIG.
The user selects a desired conversion candidate with the cursor key 164, and determines the selected conversion candidate with the confirmation key 165. Here, as shown in FIG. 75 (12), the conversion candidate “character” displayed first is determined as the conversion candidate.

Next, when the user presses the mode key 166, the mode is switched to the kana input mode, and the first input navigation 18 is displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG.
The first and second input navigations 182 are switched and displayed. In the kana input mode, the font of the character "A" in "A A1" is enlarged and displayed on the first input navigation 181.

When the character input dial 168 is turned until the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the next desired input character "de" is displayed, steps S502, S503 and S503 are performed.
After S504 and S506, a new second input navigation 18 is displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG.
2 is displayed.

When the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed down until the desired input character "de" is displayed as the input candidate character 183, steps S502, S503 and S50 are performed.
7, S508, and FIG. 75 (15) and FIG.
6), input candidate characters 183 are displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIGS. 75 (17) and 75 (18).

Here, when the character input dial 168 is turned until the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the next desired input character "1" is displayed, steps S502 and S502 are performed.
503, S504, S505, the input candidate character 18
The character "de" shown in FIG. 75 (18) is determined as the input character as 3 and in FIG.
A new second input navigation 182 is displayed on the display 169 as in 9).

If the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "1" is displayed as the input candidate character 183, steps S502, S503, S50
7, S508, and FIG. 76 (20), FIG.
1), input candidate characters 183 are switched and displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG. 76 (22) and FIG. 76 (23).

Here, when the character input dial 168 is turned until the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the next desired input character "TA" is displayed, steps S502 and S502 are performed.
503, S504, S505, the input candidate character 18
The character "1" shown in FIG. 76 (23) is determined as an input character as 3 and in FIG.
A new second input navigation 182 is displayed on the display 169 as in 4).

If the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed down until the desired input character "TA" is displayed as the input candidate character 183, steps S502, S503 and S50 are performed.
After step S508, the input candidate character 183 is displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG.

When the user presses the mode key 166, the character "ta" shown in FIG. 76 (25) is determined as an input character as the input candidate character 183, and the mode is switched to the Roman character input mode, and FIG. 76 (26) The first input navigation 181 and the second input navigation 182 are switched and displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG. First input navigation 1 in Roman alphabet input mode
At 81, the font of the character "A" in "Oh A1" is enlarged and displayed.

When the character input dial 168 is turned until the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the next desired input character "Return (line feed)" is displayed, the process proceeds to steps S502, S503, S504, and S506 and proceeds to FIG.
6 (27), a new second input navigation 182 is displayed on the display 169.

When the character input dial 168 is depressed, the sequence proceeds to steps S502, 203, S507 and S508,
As shown in FIG. 77 (28), “Return (line feed)” is displayed as an input candidate character 183 on the display 169 and becomes an input candidate.

Here, when the character input dial 168 is turned until the second input navigation 182 corresponding to the next desired input character "B" is displayed, steps S502 and S502 are performed.
503, S504, S505, the input candidate character 18
The character "Return" shown in FIG.
(Line feed) "is determined as an input character, and step S506 is executed.
In FIG. 77, a new second input navigation 182 is displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG.

When the character input dial 168 is continuously pressed until the desired input character "B" is displayed as the input candidate character 183, steps S502, S503, and S50 are performed.
7, S508, and FIG. 77 (30) and FIG.
The input candidate character 183 is displayed on the display 169 as in 1).
Is switched and displayed.

Here, the next desired input character "Space"
When the character input dial 168 is turned until the second input navigation 182 corresponding to "(half-width space)" is displayed, steps S502, S503, S504, and S505 are performed.
Then, the character "B" shown in FIG. 77 (31) is determined as an input character as the input candidate character 183, and step S
At 506, a new second input navigation 182 is displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG.

When the character input dial 168 is depressed, the process proceeds to steps S502, S503, S507, and S508 to display "Space" as an input candidate character 183 on the display 169 as shown in FIG.
Is displayed as an input candidate.

Here, when the user presses the mode key 166, the character “Space” shown in FIG. 77 (33) as the input candidate character 183 is determined as the input character, and the mode is switched to the number input mode. Figure 77
As shown in (34), the first input navigation 181 and the second input navigation 182 are switched and displayed on the display 169. In the number input mode, the font of the character "1" in "A A1" is enlarged and displayed on the first input navigation 181.

When the character input dial 168 is pressed, the process goes through steps S502, S503, S507, and S508, and the input candidate character 183 "1" is displayed on the display 169 as shown in FIG.

When the user presses the mode key 166,
The character “1” shown in FIG. 77 (35) is determined as an input character as the input candidate character 183, the mode is switched to the kana input mode, and the display 169 is displayed as shown in FIG.
First, the first input navigation 181 and the second input navigation 182 are switched and displayed. In the number input mode, the first input navigation 181 displays “A
The font of the character "A" in "1" is enlarged and displayed.

As described above, in the third embodiment,
By looking at the input navigation displayed on the display without looking at the hand, simple finger movements such as turning the dial and repeatedly tapping the dial make it possible to easily input characters in the mobile phone device.

Note that, in the third embodiment,
Instead of the character input dial 168, the character input dial 123 and the continuous key 124 in the second embodiment are used.
(FIGS. 35 and 36). Fig. 78
Is the character input dial 123 and the continuous key 1
FIG. 1 is an external view showing a configuration of a mobile phone device provided with 24.

Further, the data input device in the third embodiment may be divided so that the display 169 is provided on the television and the data input section including various keys and dials is provided on the remote controller.

FIG. 79 is a diagram showing a television including a data input device and a remote controller according to the third embodiment.

[0200] As shown in FIG.
Power key 161, call key 162, menu key 16
3, a cursor key 164, an enter key 165, a mode key 166, a clear key 167, and an input dial 168 are arranged.

On the screen of the television 191, a first input navigation 181, a second input navigation 182,
Input candidate characters 183 and a cursor 184 are displayed. The remote control 190 and the television 191 are connected by, for example, infrared communication means.

The character input dial 168 has the same structure as the character input dial 123b shown in FIGS. 58 and 59.

[0203] With such a television and a remote controller, characters can be easily input with the remote controller by a simple finger operation such as rotation of the dial and continuous tapping of the dial while looking at the input navigation displayed on the television screen without looking at the hand. become.

In place of the character input dial 168, the character input dial 123 shown in FIGS.
By using the combination of the key and the continuous key 124, characters may be input with the remote controller by rotating the character input dial 123 and pressing the continuous key 124.

The data input device according to the third embodiment may be provided in a camera.

FIG. 80 is a diagram showing a camera provided with the data input device according to the third embodiment. However, instead of the character input dial 168, the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124 in the second embodiment are used.
(FIGS. 35 and 36).

A cursor key 164, a decision key 165, a mode key 166, a clear key 167, a character input dial 123,
Continuous hit key 124, finder 203, display 1
69, and the same function keys F1 to F4 as the function keys F1 to F4 in the second embodiment are arranged below the screen of the display 169. On the upper surface of the camera body 200, a shutter button 201, a zoom dial 2
02 is installed.

The display 169 has a first input navigation 181, a second input navigation 182,
Input candidate characters 183 and a cursor 184 are displayed.

The user operates the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124 mainly with the right thumb.

In such a camera as well, while looking at input navigation displayed on the display without looking at the hand, simple finger movements such as rotating the dial and repeatedly hitting keys are used to move characters such as the title of an image shot by the camera. Easy input.

In the camera shown in FIG. 80, instead of using the combination of the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124, a character input dial 123b having a structure shown in FIGS. 58 and 59 is used to rotate and rotate the dial. May be input by successive hits.

Further, the data input device according to the third embodiment may be provided in a portable personal computer (personal digital assistant, PDA).

FIG. 81 is a diagram showing a portable personal computer provided with the data input device according to the third embodiment.
However, instead of the character input dial 168, the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 1 in the second embodiment are used.
24 (FIGS. 35 and 36).

A cursor key 164, an enter key 165, a mode key 166, a clear key 167, a character input dial 123, a continuous hit key 124,
A display 169 is installed, and below the screen of the display 169, the function keys F1 to F1 according to the second embodiment are provided.
The same function keys F1 to F4 as F4 are arranged.

The user operates the character input dial 123, the continuous hit key 124, the mode key 166, and the clear key 167 mainly with the right thumb. Also, the cursor key 164 and the decision key 165 are operated mainly with the left thumb.

On the display 169, a first input navigation 181 and a second input navigation 182 are displayed.
Input candidate characters 183 and a cursor 184 are displayed.

In such a portable personal computer as well, while looking at the input navigation displayed on the display without looking at the hand, the simple operation of the finger such as rotating the dial and repeatedly hitting the keys causes the title or the like of the image taken by the portable personal computer. Character input becomes easy.

In the portable personal computer shown in FIG. 81, instead of using the combination of the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124, the character input dial 123b having the structure shown in FIGS. Characters may be input by repeatedly tapping the dial.

Furthermore, the data input device according to the third embodiment may be provided in a wearable computer.

FIG. 82 is a diagram showing a wearable computer provided with the data input device according to the third embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 82, a remote control 190 in the wearable computer includes a power key 161,
Call key 162, menu key 163, cursor key 1
64, a determination key 165, a mode key 166, a clear key 167, and a character input dial 168.

On the screen of the head mounted display 192, a first input navigation 181, a second input navigation 182, input candidate characters 183, and a cursor 184 are displayed.

In such a wearable computer,
While looking at the input navigation displayed on the head mount display without looking at the hand, it is possible to easily enter characters in a free posture by simple finger movements such as turning the dial of the remote control and repeatedly tapping the dial become.

In the wearable computer shown in FIG. 82, instead of the character input dial 168, the combination of the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124 shown in FIGS. By pressing the button, characters may be input with the remote controller.

Further, the character input dials 123 and 168 in the second and third embodiments are fixed at a fixed angle (for example, 10 degrees, 20 degrees) like the character input dial 10 in the first embodiment. (Degree, 60 degree). The click feeling may be generated each time the rotation is made.

(Fourth Embodiment) The configuration of the fourth embodiment is basically the same as the configuration of the second embodiment, and therefore the description of the fourth embodiment will be omitted. By diverting the configuration of the second embodiment, the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted, and only different components will be described.

FIG. 83 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the operation board 102 according to the fourth embodiment.

In the fourth embodiment, the operation board 102
Above, a character input dial 323 that is rotated clockwise and counterclockwise to select a group of input characters;
An input key 324 pressed to determine an input character is arranged.

The structures of the character input dial 323 and the input keys 324 are the same as those of the character input dial 123 and the continuous key 124 shown in FIGS. 35 and 36.

The screen displayed on the display 103 is also
This is the same as the screen shown in FIGS. 37 and 46.

FIG. 84 is a diagram showing the input navigation 142 and the input candidate characters 143 displayed on the display 103 when the character input dial 323 is rotated in the kana input mode in the fourth embodiment.

When the character input dial 323 is rotated clockwise, the input navigation 142 displays “Akasana Hamarayawa Dot” and one of the characters is “A → K → S → T”. The font is enlarged (or changed in color) cyclically in the order of →→→ dot → note → a → ka. Further, for example, when the character input dial 323 is rotated counterclockwise in a state where the font of the character “K” is displayed in an enlarged manner on the input navigation 142, the character “K → → ku →
"Ke → ko → ga → gi → gu → ge → go" is displayed cyclically in this order. When the input key 324 is pressed when a desired character is displayed in the input candidate character 143, the input candidate character 14
The character displayed in 3 is input.

FIG. 85 is a flowchart showing a character input routine R600 which is a character input process. In text editing, in addition to character input, there are processes such as cursor movement, character deletion, and line feed. These processes are performed by a known method. Therefore, here, only character input will be described, and description of other processes will be omitted.

In step S601, input navigation 1 in which "A" is enlargedly displayed on display 103
42 is displayed.

In step S602, it is determined whether or not the character input process has been completed. If not, in step S603, it is determined whether or not the character input dial 323 has been rotated. If the character input dial 323 has been rotated, it is determined in step S604 whether the rotation of the character input dial 323 is clockwise. If it is clockwise, in step S605, the input navigation 142 is switched and displayed by an amount corresponding to the rotation angle of the character input dial 323. On the other hand, if the direction is counterclockwise, in step S606, the input candidate characters 143 are switched and displayed by an amount corresponding to the rotation angle of the character input dial 323.

If it is determined in step S603 that the character input dial 323 has not been rotated, it is determined in step S607 whether the input key 324 has been pressed. If the input key 324 has been depressed, the character displayed as the input candidate character 143 is input in step S608, and the input navigation 142 in which "A" is displayed enlarged in step S609 is displayed.

FIGS. 86 to 89 are diagrams showing the relationship between a series of operations performed by the user when inputting a kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations. Here, a case where the user operates a character input dial 323 and an input key 324 with an index finger to input a text of an e-mail or a facsimile destination is exemplified. For example, a case where "kanji" is input will be described.

First, the user operates the mail key 128 and the function keys F1 to F4 to shift to the text creation mode. Then, in step S601 of the character input routine R600, the input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 86 (1).

Here, when the character input dial 323 is turned clockwise until the character "ka" is enlarged and displayed on the input navigation 142, steps S602, S603,
After S604 and S605, the input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 86 (2).

Next, the character input dial 32 is displayed until the desired input character "" is displayed as the input candidate character 143.
3 is turned counterclockwise, steps S602, S6
After passing through steps 03, S604, and S606, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 86 (3).

When the input key 324 is pressed when the desired input character "?" Is displayed in the input candidate character 143, the process proceeds to steps S602, S603, and S607, and the input candidate character 43 is displayed in step S608. Is entered. Then, step S60
At 9, the input navigation 142 in which the character "A" is displayed in an enlarged manner is displayed (FIG. 87 (4)).

Next, when the character input dial 323 is turned clockwise until the character "wa" is enlarged and displayed in the input navigation 142, steps S602, S603,
After S604 and S605, the input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 87 (5).

Here, when the character input dial 323 is turned counterclockwise until the desired input character "n" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S602 and S60 are performed.
3, S604, and S606, FIG. 87 (6), FIG.
As shown in (7), the input candidate character 14 is displayed on the display 103.
3 is displayed.

A desired input character "n" is used as the input candidate character 43.
When the input key 324 is pressed when is displayed, the process proceeds to steps S602, S603, and S607 and proceeds to step S602.
At 608, the character "n" displayed in the input candidate character 43 is input. Thereafter, in step S609, the input navigation 1 in which the character "A" is displayed in an enlarged manner
42 is displayed (FIG. 88 (8)).

Next, when the character input dial 323 is turned clockwise until the character “sa” is enlarged and displayed on the input navigation 142, steps S602, S603,
After S604 and S605, the input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 88 (9).

Here, when the character input dial 323 is turned counterclockwise until the desired input character “ji” is displayed as the input candidate character 43, steps S602, S603,
After S604 and S606, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 89 (10).

The input candidate character 43 is replaced with the desired input character “ji”.
When the input key 324 is pressed when is displayed, the process proceeds to steps S602, S603, and S607 and proceeds to step S602.
At 608, the character “ji” displayed as the input candidate character 43 is input. Thereafter, in step S609, the input navigation 42 in which the character "A" is enlarged is displayed (FIG. 89 (11)).

FIG. 90 is a diagram showing the input navigation 142 and the input candidate characters 143 displayed on the display 103 when the character input dial 323 is rotated in the alphabet input mode in the fourth embodiment.

When the character input dial 323 is rotated clockwise, the input navigation 142 changes to “ABC”.
DEF GHI Space ”→“ JKL MNO P
QRS Space ”→“ TUV WXYZ,.
/ ＠ Space "→" ABC DEF GHI Sp
ace "and displayed in a cyclical manner, and the character group therein is further changed to" ABC → DEF → GHI → SPac ".
e → JKL → MNO → ... →,. ;: / ＠ → Space →
The font is displayed in an enlarged manner (or by changing the color) cyclically, such as "ABC → DEF". Here, for example, “ABC DEF GHI S
When the character input dial 323 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction while the “Pace” is displayed in a state where the font “ABC” therein is enlarged, “A → B → C → a → “b → c” is cyclically switched and displayed in this order. When the input key 324 is pressed when a desired character is displayed as the input candidate character 43, the character displayed in the input candidate character 43 is input.

FIGS. 91 to 94 are diagrams showing the relationship between a series of operations performed by the user when inputting Roman characters and the display screen displayed corresponding to the operations. Here, the user operates the character input dial 323 and the input key 324 with the index finger to input the text of the e-mail,
An example of inputting a facsimile destination will be described.
For example, a case where "Des" is input will be described as an example.

First, the user operates the mail key 128 and the function keys F1 to F4 to shift to the text creation mode. Then, in step S601 of the character input routine R600, the input navigation 142 in which the character group “ABC” is enlarged as shown in FIG. 91A is displayed on the display 103.

If the character input dial 323 is turned clockwise until the character group "DEF" in the input navigation 142 is enlarged and displayed, steps S602 and S602 are executed.
After 603, S604, and S605, the input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

Next, when the character input dial 323 is turned counterclockwise until the desired input character "D" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S602, S603, S
After 604 and S606, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 91 (3).

When the input key 324 is pressed when the desired input character "D" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, the process proceeds to steps S602, S603, and S607, and in step S608, the input candidate character 143 is displayed. Character "D" is input. Then step S1
At 09, the input navigation 142 in which the character group “ABC” is enlarged is displayed (FIG. 92 (4)).

Next, the character input dial 32 is displayed until the character group "DEF" in the input navigation 142 is enlarged and displayed.
3 is rotated clockwise, steps S602 and S60
After S3, S604, and S605, the input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

Here, when the character input dial 323 is turned counterclockwise until the desired input character "e" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S602 and S60 are performed.
After S3, S604 and S606, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

A desired input character "e" is used as the input candidate character 43.
When the input key 324 is pressed when is displayed, the process proceeds to steps S602, S603, and S607 and proceeds to step S602.
In 608, the character “e” displayed in the input candidate character 143 is input. Thereafter, in step S609, the input navigation 142 in which the character group "ABC" is enlarged is displayed (FIG. 93 (7)).

Next, when the character input dial 323 is turned clockwise until the character group "PQRS" in the input navigation 142 is enlarged and displayed, steps S602 and S602 are executed.
After 603, S604, and S605, the input navigation 142 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG.

Here, when the character input dial 323 is turned counterclockwise until the desired input character "s" is displayed as the input candidate character 143, steps S602 and S60 are performed.
After S3, S604 and S606, the input candidate character 143 is displayed on the display 103 as shown in FIG. 93 (9).

A desired input character "s" is used as the input candidate character 43.
When the input key 324 is pressed when is displayed, the process proceeds to steps S602, S603, and S607 and proceeds to step S602.
In 608, the character "s" displayed in the input candidate character 143 is input. Thereafter, in step S609, the input navigation 142 in which the character group "ABC" is enlarged is displayed (FIG. 94 (10)).

As described above, in the fourth embodiment,
The user can easily input characters in the facsimile apparatus by simple finger movements such as rotation and inversion of the dial and pressing of a key without looking at the hand while looking at the input navigation displayed on the display.

In the facsimile apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, the character input dial 323 and the input keys 324 are constituted by character input dials having the same structure as the character input dial 123b shown in FIGS. 58 and 59. Is also good.

The character input dial having the same structure as the character input dial 123b may be arranged at the same position as the facsimile apparatus shown in FIG. In this case, the character input dial is mainly rotated with the thumb and then pressed to operate.

Thus, the character input dial may be located at any position on the palm rest. Alternatively, the palm rest may be formed in a curved shape so that the palm can be easily placed thereon, and the character input dial may be installed on the inclined surface of the palm rest so as to be easily operated with the thumb or other finger.

(Fifth Embodiment) FIG. 95 is an external view showing an external configuration of a data input terminal according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 95, in this data input terminal, a power key 461 for turning on / off the power, a menu key 463 for displaying a list of menus, a kana-kanji conversion, a cursor 484 A cursor key 464 for moving up, down, left and right,
A confirmation key 465 for confirming kana-kanji conversion candidates, confirming menus, and performing line feeds; a mode key 466 for cyclically switching the character input mode (Kana → Kana → Romaji → Numeric → Kana); deleting and undoing characters (Undo
A clear key 467 for performing (= return to the original), a character input dial 423 for inputting characters by rotating and selecting characters, and a display 469 are arranged.

A first input navigation 481 having a content corresponding to the character input mode is displayed on the display 469, and a second input navigation 48 having a content corresponding to the clockwise rotation of the character input dial 423.
2 is displayed, and input candidate characters 483 having contents corresponding to the counterclockwise rotation of the character input dial 423 are displayed.
Is displayed. A cursor 484 is displayed according to the text being edited.

The structure of the character input dial 423 is shown in FIG.
This is the same as the character input dial 123b shown in FIG.

FIG. 96 is a diagram showing the size of the above data input terminal. The size of this data input terminal is 12
The size is 2.0 mm × 39.0 mm in width, and the diameter of the character input dial 423 is 26.0 mm.

FIG. 97 is a diagram showing a state in which the user holds the data input terminal with one hand and mainly operates with one thumb.

FIG. 98 is a block diagram showing a main electrical configuration of the data input terminal. Illustration of parts not related to the input of character data is omitted.

As shown in the figure, the data input terminal includes a power key 461, a menu key 463, and a cursor key 46.
4, confirm key 465, mode key 466, clear key 4
67, character input dial 423, display 469,
It comprises a CPU 470, a ROM 471, a RAM 472, a display control unit 473, a text editing unit 474, and a communication unit 477, and is connected to a public network via the communication unit 477.

FIG. 99 shows a display 469 according to the rotation of the character input dial 423 in the kana input mode.
9 is a diagram showing a relationship between a second input navigation 482 and an input candidate character 483 displayed in FIG.

When the character input dial 423 is rotated clockwise, “A →
“→→→→→→→→ punctuation → symbol” are displayed in this order. Here, for example, when the character input dial 423 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction while “A” is displayed in the second input navigation 482, the input candidate character 483 becomes “A → I → U → E → O →”.ぁ → ぃ → ぅ → ぇ → ぉ ”is displayed cyclically in this order. Input candidate character 483
When the desired character is displayed on the character input dial 42
When 3 is pressed, the displayed character is input. In the kana input mode, the character group "A A1" is displayed on the first input navigation 81, and the font of the character "A" in the group is enlarged (or changed in color or the like) so that it can be identified. Is displayed.

FIG. 100 is a diagram showing the relationship between the second input navigation 482 and the input candidate characters 483 displayed according to the rotation of the character input dial 423 in the kana input mode.

When the character input dial 423 is rotated clockwise, “A →
“Ca → Sa → Ta → Na →… → Punctuation → Symbol” are displayed in this order. Here, for example, when the character input dial 423 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction while “TA” is displayed on the second input navigation 482, “TA → HI → TU → TE → TO → →→ da → ヂ → ヅ → de → do ”is displayed cyclically in this order. Input candidate character 4
When the character input dial 423 is pressed when a desired character is displayed on 83, the character is input. In the kana input mode, the character group "A A1" is displayed on the first input navigation 81, and the font of the character "A" in the character group is enlarged (or changed in color or the like) so that it can be identified. Is displayed.

FIG. 101 is a diagram showing the relationship between the second input navigation 482 and the input candidate characters 483 displayed according to the rotation of the character input dial 423 in the Roman character input mode.

When the character input dial 423 is rotated clockwise, “ABC” is displayed on the second input navigation 82.
→ DEF → GHI → JKL → MNO → ... → Space →
"Enter" is cyclically switched and displayed in this order. Here, for example, “A” is displayed in the second input navigation 82.
When the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise in a state where “BC” is displayed, “A → B → C → a → b → c” is switched cyclically in this order to the input candidate character 83. Is displayed. When the character input dial 423 is pressed when a desired character is displayed as the input candidate character 83, the character is input. In Roman alphabet input mode,
The character group "A A1" is displayed on the first input navigation 81, and the font of the character "A" in the character group is enlarged (or changed in color or the like) and displayed in an identifiable manner.

FIG. 102 is a diagram showing the relationship between the second input navigation 482 and the input candidate characters 483 displayed according to the rotation of the character input dial 423 in the number input mode.

When the character input dial 423 is rotated clockwise, the second input navigation 82 displays “1 → 2”.
→ 3 →... → 0 → * → # ”are cyclically switched and displayed in this order. In the number input mode, even if the character input dial 423 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction while the second input navigation 482 is displayed, nothing is displayed on the input candidate characters 483. When the character input dial 423 is pressed when the desired character is displayed on the second input navigation 482, the character is input.
In the number input mode, the first input navigation 8
1, the character group "A A1" is displayed, and the font of the character "1" in the character group is enlarged (or changed in color or the like) and displayed in an identifiable manner.

FIG. 103 is a flowchart showing a character input routine R700 which is a character input process. In addition,
In text editing, in addition to character input, there are processes such as cursor movement, character deletion, and line feed. These processes are performed by a known method. Therefore, here, only character input will be described, and description of other processes will be omitted.

In step S701, a predetermined second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469.

In step S702, it is determined whether or not the character input processing has been completed. If not, in step S703, it is determined whether or not the character input dial 423 has been rotated. If the character input dial 423 has been rotated, it is determined in step S704 whether the rotation of the character input dial 423 is clockwise. If clockwise, in step S705, a second input navigation 482 having contents corresponding to the rotation angle of the character input dial 423 is displayed. On the other hand, if it is counterclockwise, in step S706, the character input dial 4
The input candidate character 483 having the content corresponding to the rotation angle of 23 is displayed.

If it is determined in step S703 that the character input dial 423 has not been rotated, it is determined in step S707 that the character input dial 423 has been pressed. If the character input dial 423 is pressed, in step S708, the character displayed in the input candidate character 83 (or the character displayed in the second input navigation 482 when there is no display in the input candidate character 83) is input. Thereafter, in step S709, a predetermined second input navigation 482 is displayed.

FIGS. 104 to 109 are diagrams showing the relationship between the user's operation when inputting characters and the screen of the display 469 displayed correspondingly. Here, the user operates the character input dial 423 with his thumb,
A case where "character data (line feed) Edit 560" is input will be described.

The user operates the menu key 463, the cursor key 464, the mode key 466, and the enter key 465 to select the kana input mode of the text creation mode. Then, in step S701 of the character input routine R700, “Ah A1” is displayed on the first input navigation 481 on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 104 (1), and the character “A” is enlarged and displayed. “A” is displayed in the second input navigation 482.

When the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until "ma" is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S702, S703, S704, S
705, FIG. 104 (2), FIG. 104 (3), FIG.
04 (4), FIG. 104 (5), FIG. 104 (6), FIG.
As shown in 4 (7), the second input navigation 482 is switched and displayed on the display 469.

When the character “ma” is displayed in the second input navigation 482, the character input dial 4 is used until the desired input character “mo” is displayed in the input candidate character 483.
23 is rotated counterclockwise, step S70
2, S703, S704, and S706, and FIG.
(8), FIG. 104 (9), FIG. 105 (10), FIG.
(11), the display 46 as shown in FIG.
9, an input candidate character 483 is displayed.

When the desired input character "MO" is displayed as the input candidate character 483, when the character input dial 423 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input as well. Thereafter, in step S709, "A" is displayed in the second input navigation 482 (FIG. 105 (13)).

Next, when the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until “sa” is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S702, S703, and S7 are performed.
04, after S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.

Here, when the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character “ji” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S702 and S7 are performed.
After the steps 03, S704, and S706, the input candidate character 483 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.

When the desired input character “ji” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, when the character input dial 423 is pressed, the processing proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input. Thereafter, in step S709, "A" is displayed in the second input navigation 482 (FIG. 105 (16)).

Here, when the “↓” key of the cursor key 464 is pressed, a kana-kanji conversion process is performed on the character string “moji” being input, and a list of conversion candidates is displayed on the display 4.
Since it is displayed at 69 (FIG. 105 (17)), the user selects a desired candidate by using the cursor key 464.

Here, since the first candidate “character” is a desired conversion candidate, pressing the enter key 465 fixes the conversion candidate (FIG. 105 (18)).

Next, when the mode key 466 is pressed, the mode shifts to the kana input mode, and in step S701 of the character input routine R700, the first input navigation 481 on the display 469 as shown in FIG.
Is displayed, and the font of the character "A" therein is enlarged and displayed. “A” is displayed in the second input navigation 482.

When the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until "TA" is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S702, S703, S704, S
After 705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.

Here, when the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character “de” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S702 and S7 are performed.
After the steps 03, S704 and S706, the input candidate character 483 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 106 (21).

When the desired input character "de" is displayed as the input candidate character 483, when the character input dial 423 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input. Thereafter, in step S709, "A" is displayed in the second input navigation 482 (FIG. 106 (22)).

Next, when the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until “W” is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S702, S703, and S7 are performed.
04, after S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 106 (23).

Here, when the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character “1” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S702 and S7 are performed.
After passing through steps 03, S704, and S706, input candidate characters 483 are displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.

When the desired input character "1" is displayed as the input candidate character 483, when the character input dial 423 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input. Thereafter, in step S709, "A" is displayed in the second input navigation 482 (FIG. 106 (25)).

Next, when the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until "T" is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S702, S703, and S7 are performed.
04 and S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.

Here, when the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character “TA” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S702 and S7 are performed.
After passing through steps 03, S704 and S706, the input candidate character 483 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 106 (27).

When the character input dial 423 is pressed when the desired input character “ta” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input. Thereafter, in step S709, "A" is displayed in the second input navigation 482 (FIG. 107 (28)).

Next, when the mode key 466 is pressed, the mode shifts to the Roman character input mode, and in step S701 of the character input routine R700, the first input navigation 48 on the display 469 as shown in FIG.
In addition to the display of "Oh A1", the font of the character "A" therein is enlarged and displayed. “ABC” is displayed in the second input navigation 482.

Here, the character input dial 42 is displayed until “Enter” is displayed in the second input navigation 482.
When the dial 3 is turned clockwise, steps S702, S70
3, S704 and S705, the second input navigation 48 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.
2 is displayed.

When the character input dial 423 is depressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the character “Enter (line feed)” displayed as the input candidate character 483 is input. Thereafter, in step S709, "ABC" is displayed on the second input navigation 482 (FIG. 107 (31)).

Next, “D” is displayed in the second input navigation 482.
When the character input dial 423 is rotated clockwise until “EF” is displayed, steps S702, S703, and S7 are performed.
04, after S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 107 (32).

Here, when the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character “E” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S702 and S7 are performed.
Through steps 03, S704, and S706, the input candidate character 483 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 107 (33).

When the desired input character "E" is displayed as the input candidate character 483, if the character input dial 423 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input. Then, in step S709, the second input navigation 482 displays "A
BC ”is displayed (FIG. 107 (34)).

Next, "D" is displayed in the second input navigation 482.
When the character input dial 423 is rotated clockwise until “EF” is displayed, steps S702, S703, and S7 are performed.
04, after S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 107 (35).

Here, when the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character “d” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S702 and S7 are performed.
Through steps 03, S704, and S706, input candidate characters 483 are displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 107 (36).

When the character input dial 423 is pressed when the desired input character “d” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input. Then, in step S709, the second input navigation 482 displays "A
BC ”is displayed (FIG. 108 (37)).

Next, “G” is input to the second input navigation 482.
When the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until "HI" is displayed, steps S702, S703, and S7 are performed.
04, after S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.

Here, when the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character “i” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S702 and S7 are performed.
Through steps 03, S704, and S706, input candidate characters 483 are displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.

When the desired input character "i" is displayed as the input candidate character 483, when the character input dial 423 is pressed, the processing proceeds to steps S702, S703 and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input. Then, in step S709, the second input navigation 482 displays "A
BC ”is displayed (FIG. 108 (40)).

Next, “T” is displayed in the second input navigation 482.
When the character input dial 423 is rotated clockwise until “UV” is displayed, steps S702, S703, and S7 are performed.
04, after S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 108 (41).

Here, when the character input dial 423 is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character “t” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S702 and S7 are performed.
Through steps 03, S704, and S706, input candidate characters 483 are displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.

When the desired input character "t" is displayed as the input candidate character 483, when the character input dial 423 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the input candidate character 483 is displayed.
Is input. Then, in step S709, the second input navigation 482 "AB
C "is displayed (FIG. 108 (43)).

If the mode key 466 is pressed here, the mode shifts to the numeric input mode. In step S701 of the character input routine R700, "A1" is displayed on the first input navigation 481 on the display 469 as shown in FIG. It is displayed and the character "1" in it
Font is enlarged and displayed. “1” is displayed in the second input navigation 482.

If the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until "5" is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S702, S703, S704, S
After 705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed as shown in FIG. In the number input mode, no display is performed on the input candidate characters 483 even if the character input dial 423 is turned counterclockwise.

When "5" is displayed in the second input navigation 482, if the character input dial 423 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the second input navigation 482 is executed.
"5" displayed in is input. Thereafter, in step S709, "1" is displayed in the second input navigation 482 (FIG. 109 (46)).

Next, when the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until "6" is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S702, S703 and S7 are performed.
04, after S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed as shown in FIG. 109 (47).

When "6" is displayed in the second input navigation 482, if the character input dial 423 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703, and S707, and in step S708, the second input navigation 48 is executed.
“6” displayed in 2 is input. Thereafter, in step S709, "1" is displayed in the second input navigation 482 (FIG. 109 (48)).

Next, when the character input dial 423 is turned clockwise until “0” is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S702, S703, and S7 are performed.
04, after S705, the second input navigation 482 is displayed as shown in FIG.

When "0" is displayed on the second input navigation 482, when the character input dial 423 is pressed, the process proceeds to steps S702, S703 and S707, and in step S708, the second input navigation 48 is executed.
“0” displayed in 2 is input. Then, in step S709, the second input navigation 482
“1” is displayed (FIG. 109 (50)).

If the mode key 466 is pressed here, the mode shifts to the kana input mode. As shown in FIG. 109 (51), “Ah A1” is displayed on the first input navigation 481 on the display 469, and characters in the same are displayed. The font "A" is displayed enlarged. “A” is displayed in the second input navigation 482.

As described above, in the fifth embodiment,
By looking at the input navigation displayed on the display without looking at the hand, a simple finger operation such as rotation and inversion of the dial and depression of the dial makes it possible to easily input characters in the data input terminal.

In the data input terminal according to the fifth embodiment, the character input dial 423 is connected to the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 1 shown in FIGS. 35 and 36.
24, a combination of a character input dial and an input key having the same structure as that of the character input dial 24.

Further, the data input terminal in the fifth embodiment may be divided so that the display 469 is provided on the television and the data input section including various keys and dials is provided on the remote controller. The remote controller and the television are connected by, for example, infrared communication means.

[0331] With such a remote controller and a television, characters can be easily input with the remote controller by a simple finger operation such as turning the dial and pressing the dial while looking at the input navigation displayed on the television screen without looking at the hand. Becomes possible.

In place of such a character input dial of the remote control, a character input dial 123 and a combination of a continuous key 124 having the same structure as the character input dial 123 and the continuous key 124 shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 are used. Input may be performed.

Further, the data input terminal according to the fifth embodiment may be provided in a camera.

That is, a cursor key 464, a decision key 465, a mode key 466, a clear key 467, a character input dial 423, a display 469, and a finder are provided on the back of the camera body. Buttons and zoom dial are installed.

In such a camera as well, while looking at the input navigation displayed on the display without looking at the hand, the simple operation of the finger such as turning the dial and pressing the dial causes the character such as the title of the image shot by the camera to be displayed. Easy input.

In place of the character input dial in such a camera, a combination of a character input dial 123 and an input key having the same structure as the character input dial 123 and the continuous key 124 shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 is used. May be performed.

The data input terminal according to the fifth embodiment may be provided in a portable personal computer.

That is, a cursor key 464, an enter key 465, a mode key 466, a clear key 467, a character input dial 423, and a display 469 are provided on the main body of the personal computer.

Even with such a portable personal computer, the user can easily input characters on the portable personal computer by turning the dial and pressing the dial with a simple finger operation while looking at the input navigation displayed on the display 469 without looking at the hand. Becomes possible.

In place of the character input dial in such a portable personal computer, a combination of a character input dial and an input key having the same structure as the character input dial 123 and the continuous hit key 124 shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 is used. Input may be performed.

Further, the data input terminal according to the fifth embodiment may be provided in an electronic dictionary.

The data input terminal according to the fifth embodiment may be provided in a wearable computer.

That is, the power key 461, the menu key 463, the cursor key 464, the enter key 465, and the mode key 46 are provided on the remote control of the wearable computer.
6, a clear key 467 and a character input dial 423 are provided.
It consists of.

In such a wearable computer,
By looking at the input navigation displayed on the head-mounted display without looking at the hand, the simple rotation of the dial and the pressing of the dial, such as pressing the dial, allows the remote controller to easily input characters in a free posture.

In the fifth embodiment, the character input dial is set at a fixed angle (for example, 10 degrees, 20 degrees).
(Degree, 60 degrees) A click feeling may be generated each time the rotation is made. Further, the character input dial may generate a click feeling every time the input navigation and / or the input candidate character is switched and displayed. In addition, the character input dial has a fixed angle (for example, 10 degrees,
Degree, 60 degree), every time it rotates, input navigation and / or input candidate characters are switched and displayed,
A click feeling may be generated.

The character input dial 423 of the data input terminal according to the fifth embodiment may be replaced with a character input dial 423c having a structure as shown in FIG.

FIG. 110 is a sectional view showing a character input dial 423c having a structure different from that of the character input dial 423.

As shown in the figure, the character input dial 423c
And a plurality of support rollers 4 erected on the dial base 458.
52c, the rotation detecting roller 451c is inscribed in the character input dial 423c.
The rotation angle of the character input dial 423c is detected by a rotary encoder 453c connected to 51c. A non-slip is formed on the surface of the character input dial 423c.

The character input dial 423c having such a configuration is used.
With reference to FIG. 111, a description will be given of a character input process in the case of using.

FIG. 111 is a flowchart showing a character input routine R800 which is a character input process. In addition,
In text editing, in addition to character input, there are processes such as cursor movement, character deletion, and line feed. These processes are performed by a known method. Therefore, here, only character input will be described, and description of other processes will be omitted.

At step S801, a predetermined second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469.

In step S802, it is determined whether or not the character input processing has been completed. If not, in step S803, it is determined whether or not the character input dial 423c has been rotated. If the character input dial 423c is rotating, it is determined in step S804 whether the rotation of the character input dial 423c is clockwise.
If it is clockwise, in step S805, if there is a character being displayed in the input candidate character 483, the character is input. In step S806, the character input dial 42
The second input navigation 82 having the content corresponding to the rotation angle of 3c is displayed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S804 that the rotation of the character input dial 423c is counterclockwise, in step S807, the input candidate character 83 having the content corresponding to the rotation angle of the character input dial 423 is deleted. indicate.

FIG. 112 is a diagram showing the relationship between the user's operation when inputting characters and the screen displayed on the display 469 correspondingly. Here, a case will be described in which the user operates the character input dial 423c with the thumb to input “moji”.

The user operates the menu key 463, the cursor key 464, the mode key 466, and the enter key 465 to select the kana input mode of the text creation mode. Then, in step S801 of the character input routine R800, “Oh A1” is displayed on the first input navigation 81 as shown in FIG. 112 (1), and the font of the character “Oh” is enlarged and displayed. Is done. “A” is displayed on the second input navigation 82.

Next, when the character input dial 423c is rotated clockwise until “ma” is displayed in the second input navigation 482, steps S802, S803, S
After 804, S805, and S806, the second input navigation 4 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG.
82 is displayed.

When the character input dial 423c is rotated counterclockwise until the desired input character "MO" is displayed as the input candidate character 483, steps S802 and S80 are performed.
After S3, S804 and S807, the input candidate character 483 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 112 (3).

If the desired input character “MO” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, the second input navigation 4
Character input dial 423 until “sa” is displayed at 82
When c is rotated clockwise, steps S802, S80
3. After step S804, in step S805, the character "mo" displayed as the input candidate character 483 is input, and in step S806, the second input navigation 482 is displayed as shown in FIG. 112 (4).

Here, the character input dial 423c is operated until the desired input character “ji” is displayed as the input candidate character 483.
Is rotated counterclockwise, steps S802 and S802 are executed.
After 803, S804, and S807, the input candidate character 483 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 112 (5).

If the desired input character “ji” is displayed as the input candidate character 483, the second input navigation 4
Character input dial 423 until “A” is displayed in 82
When c is rotated clockwise, steps S802, S80
3. After step S804, in step S805, the "ji" displayed on the input candidate character 483 is input, and in step S806, the second input navigation 482 is displayed on the display 469 as shown in FIG. 112 (6). .

As described above, in the data input terminal using the character input dial 423c as shown in FIGS. 11 to 112, it is not necessary to press the character input dial 423c.

In each of the above embodiments,
Using synthesized speech, display contents of input navigation,
The characters whose input has been confirmed may be presented to the user by voice. For example, the character “mo” whose input is confirmed in FIG. 105 (13) is voice-synthesized and presented to the user. Further, each time one word (or one sentence or one sentence) is input and confirmed, it may be presented to the user as a synthesized voice.

By using the synthesized speech in this way, the user can confirm the input more reliably.

Further, a storage medium storing program codes of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or an apparatus, and a computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the present invention is also achieved when U) reads out and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention. .

As storage media for supplying program codes, for example, floppy disks, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CDs
-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS running on the computer based on the instructions of the program code. Performs some or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
Needless to say, this is included in the present invention.

[0368] Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, It is needless to say that the present invention includes a case where the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the embodiments described above. No.

[0369]

As described in detail above, claims 1 and 3 have been described.
2. According to the invention of claim 47 or claim 62,
In response to the first operation of the user, a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed, and at least one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other. Thus, the display control means controls the display on the display device. Then, when there is a second operation by the user, the determination means changes the predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device. Is determined as a character symbol to be input.

[0370] Thereby, it is displayed in an easy-to-understand manner where the predetermined one character symbol is located in the entire character symbol. It is possible to clearly recognize whether the rotation should be performed, and it is possible to smoothly select characters by rotating the dial with a simple finger operation.

According to the invention described in claim 5, 35, or 50, the data input device is operated by the user to rotate the first selecting means, and the data input device is turned on by being pressed by the user and turned on. The first operation is an operation of the first and second selection means by a user, and the at least one character symbol is changed according to the rotation of the first selection means. One of a plurality of character symbols belonging to the selected at least one character symbol is cyclically selected each time the selected second symbol is turned on.

Thus, input characters can be easily selected by a simple operation of rotating the first selecting means and pressing the second selecting means without looking at the screen while viewing the screen of the display device. It is characterized by the following.

According to the invention described in claim 8, 37 or 52, the data input device is rotatable in the clockwise direction and the counterclockwise direction, and is rotated by being operated by the user. Further comprising: a first selection unit, and a second selection unit that is turned on by being pressed by a user,
The first operation is a rotation operation of the first selection unit by a user, and the at least one character symbol is cyclically selected according to rotation of the first selection unit in a first rotation direction. One of a plurality of character symbols belonging to the selected at least one character symbol is cyclically selected according to rotation of the first selection means in a second rotation direction. I do.

Thus, the at least one character symbol is selected by the rotation of the first selection means in the first rotation direction, and the selection is made by the rotation of the first selection means in the second rotation direction. One of a plurality of character symbols belonging to the at least one character symbol is selected. Then, by pressing the second selecting means, the selected character symbol is input. Therefore, by simple operations such as rotation of the first selecting means and pressing of the second selecting means, characters can be easily input without looking at the hand while looking at the screen of the display device.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external view showing an external configuration of a data input terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an external view of the data input terminal showing the size of each part of the data input terminal.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state where a user holds a data input terminal with one hand.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical internal configuration of the data input terminal.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a character input dial.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the character input dial as viewed from the side.

FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a configuration of a leaf spring.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a mechanism in which a click feeling is generated by a leaf spring when the dial body rotates.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a kana character input process.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a general display screen displayed on a display in a kana character input process.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a relationship (1/3) between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial and character input guidance in a kana character input process.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a relationship (2/3) between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial and character input guidance in a kana character input process.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a relationship (3/3) between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial and character input guidance in a kana character input process.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a display screen displayed on a display in a kana character input process.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a display screen displayed on a display in a kana character input process.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a series of display screens of a display when “kanji” is input in kana character input processing.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a series of display screens of a display when “kanji” is input in kana character input processing.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a Roman character input process.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a general display screen displayed on a display in a Roman character input process.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a general display screen displayed on a display in a Roman character input process.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a relationship (1/3) between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial and character input guidance in a Roman character input process.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a relationship (2/3) between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial and character input guidance in a Roman character input process.

FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a relationship (3/3) between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial and character input guidance in a Roman character input process.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a series of display screens of a display when “Cat” is input in the Roman alphabet input process.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a number input process.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a general display screen displayed on a display in a numeral input process.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial and input candidate characters in a numeral input process.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating a series of display screens of the display when “2 (blank) 7” is input in the multiple-order input process.

FIG. 29 is an external view showing a data input terminal having a configuration different from that of the first embodiment.

FIG. 30 is an external view showing a data input terminal having a configuration different from that of the first embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a view showing the appearance of a facsimile apparatus equipped with the data input device according to the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of an operation board.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a state where the user is operating the operation board with the right hand to input characters.

FIG. 34 is a block diagram showing main electric components in the facsimile apparatus.

FIG. 35 is a plan view of a character input dial and a continuous hit key.

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the character input dial and the continuous hit key as viewed from the side.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on a display in a kana input mode.

FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial, displayed input navigation, and input candidate characters displayed by repeated tapping in a kana input mode.

FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a character input routine.

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (1/6) by a user when inputting kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 41 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (2/6) by a user when inputting kana and a display screen displayed in response to the operations.

FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (3/6) by a user when inputting a kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (4/6) by a user when inputting kana and a display screen displayed in response to the operations.

FIG. 44 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (5/6) by a user when inputting kana and a display screen displayed in response to the operations.

FIG. 45 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (6/6) by a user when inputting a kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 46 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on the display in the alphabet input mode.

FIG. 47 is a diagram showing a relationship between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial, displayed input navigation, and input candidate characters displayed by repeated tapping in an alphabetic character input mode.

FIG. 48 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (1/9) by a user when inputting alphabetic characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 49 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (2/9) by a user when inputting English characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 50 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (3/9) by a user when inputting alphabetic characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 51 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of user operations (4/9) when inputting alphabetic characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 52 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (5/9) by a user when inputting alphabetic characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 53 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (6/9) by a user when inputting alphabetic characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 54 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (7/9) by a user when inputting alphabetic characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 55 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (8/9) by a user when inputting alphabetic characters and a display screen displayed in response to the operations;

FIG. 56 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (9/9) by a user when inputting alphabetic characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 57 is an external view showing a facsimile apparatus provided with a character input dial different from the character input dial in the second embodiment.

FIG. 58 is a plan view showing a configuration of a character input dial.

FIG. 59 is a sectional view of the character input dial as viewed from the side.

60 is an external view showing another facsimile apparatus in which the character input dial is arranged at a position different from the position shown in FIG. 57.

FIG. 61 is a diagram showing an appearance of a mobile phone device equipped with the data input device according to the present invention.

FIG. 62 is a diagram showing the size of the mobile phone device.

FIG. 63 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the user holds the mobile phone device with one hand and mainly operates with one thumb.

FIG. 64 is a block diagram illustrating a main electrical configuration of the mobile phone device.

FIG. 65 shows a rotation angle θ of the character input dial, a displayed second input navigation in the kana input mode,
It is a figure showing the relation with the input candidate character displayed by repeated hits.

FIG. 66 is a diagram illustrating a position of θ = 0 degrees of the character input dial in the kana input mode.

FIG. 67 shows the rotation angle θ of the character input dial, the displayed second input navigation in the kana input mode,
It is a figure showing the relation with the input candidate character displayed by repeated hits.

FIG. 68 is a diagram illustrating a position of θ = 0 degrees of the character input dial in the kana input mode.

FIG. 69 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a rotation angle θ of a character input dial, a displayed second input navigation, and input candidate characters displayed by continuous tapping in a Roman character input mode.

FIG. 70 is a diagram illustrating a position of θ = 0 degrees of the character input dial in the Roman character input mode.

FIG. 71 shows a rotation angle θ of the character input dial, a displayed second input navigation in the number input mode,
It is a figure showing the relation with the input candidate character displayed by repeated hits.

FIG. 72 is a diagram showing the position of θ = 0 degrees of the character input dial in the number input mode.

FIG. 73 is a flowchart showing a character input routine that is character input processing in various character input modes.

FIG. 74 is a diagram illustrating a series of operations (1) performed by a user when characters are input;
FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a relationship between / 4) and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operation.

FIG. 75 is a diagram illustrating a series of operations (2) performed by a user when inputting characters.
FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a relationship between / 4) and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operation.

FIG. 76 shows a series of operations (3) performed by a user when inputting characters.
FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a relationship between / 4) and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operation.

FIG. 77 illustrates a series of operations (4) performed by a user when inputting characters.
FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a relationship between / 4) and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operation.

FIG. 78 is an external view showing a configuration of a mobile phone device provided with a character input dial and a continuous hit key.

FIG. 79 is a diagram illustrating a television including a data input device and a remote controller according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 80 is a diagram illustrating a camera including a data input device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 81 is a diagram illustrating a portable personal computer including a data input device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 82 is a diagram illustrating a wearable computer including a data input device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 83 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of an operation board according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 84 is a diagram illustrating input navigation and input candidate characters displayed on the display when the character input dial is rotated in the kana input mode according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 85: a character input routine R60 as a character input process
6 is a flowchart showing 0.

FIG. 86 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (1/4) of a user when inputting a kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 87 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (2/4) by a user when inputting a kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 88 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (3/4) by a user when inputting a kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 89 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (4/4) by a user when inputting kana and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 90 is a diagram illustrating input navigation and input candidate characters displayed on the display when the character input dial is rotated in the alphabet input mode according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 91 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (1/4) of a user when inputting Roman characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations;

FIG. 92 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (2/4) by a user when inputting Roman characters and a display screen displayed in response to the operations;

FIG. 93 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (3/4) by a user when inputting Roman characters and a display screen displayed in response to the operations;

FIG. 94 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (4/4) by a user when inputting Roman characters and a display screen displayed corresponding to the operations.

FIG. 95 is an external view showing an external configuration of a data input terminal according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 96 is a diagram illustrating the size of a data input terminal according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 97 is a diagram illustrating a state where the user is holding the data input terminal in the fifth embodiment with one hand and operating mainly with one thumb.

FIG. 98 is a block diagram showing a main electrical configuration of the data input terminal according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 99 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between second input navigation displayed on a display in response to rotation of a character input dial and input candidate characters in a kana input mode.

FIG. 100 is a diagram showing a relationship between second input navigation displayed according to rotation of a character input dial and input candidate characters in a kana input mode.

FIG. 101 is a diagram showing a relationship between second input navigation displayed according to rotation of a character input dial and input candidate characters in a Roman character input mode.

FIG. 102 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between second input navigation displayed according to rotation of a character input dial and input candidate characters in a numeric input mode.

FIG. 103 is a character input routine R7 which is a character input process.
FIG.

FIG. 104 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (1/6) by a user when inputting characters and a display screen displayed corresponding thereto.

FIG. 105 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (2/6) by a user when inputting characters and a display screen displayed corresponding thereto.

FIG. 106 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (3/6) by a user when inputting characters and a display screen displayed corresponding thereto.

FIG. 107 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (4/6) by a user when inputting characters and a display screen displayed corresponding thereto.

FIG. 108 is a diagram showing a relationship between a series of operations (5/6) by a user when characters are input, and a display screen displayed corresponding thereto.

FIG. 109 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a series of operations (6/6) by a user when inputting characters and a display screen displayed corresponding thereto.

FIG. 110 is a sectional view showing a character input dial having another structure.

FIG. 111 is a character input routine R8 which is a character input process.
FIG.

FIG. 112 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a user operation when inputting characters and a screen correspondingly displayed on a display.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Main body 2 Display (display device) 3 Character input guidance 31 Atakana row 32 Input candidate character 33 Enlarged character 4 Power key 5 Menu key 6 Cursor key 7 Clear key 8 Enter line feed key 9 Mode key 10 Character input dial 11 CPU (determination means) 12) RAM 13 ROM 14 Display control unit (display control means) 15 Text editing unit 16 Kana-Kanji conversion unit 17 Dictionary 18 Character input guidance storage unit 19a Character selection dial 19b Character confirmation key 20 Dial body 21 Support roller 22 Rotation detection roller 23 Plate Spring mounting base 24 Leaf spring 24a Mountain part 24b Notch groove 25 Click feeling generating projection 26 Rotary encoder 27 Dial mounting base 28 Push button 41 Cursor 42 Remote control main body 101 Facsimile main body 102 Operation Card 103 Display 104 Handset 105 Handy Scanner 106 Paper Feed Tray 121 Palm Rest 122 Cursor Key 123 Character Input Dial (First Selection Means) 123b Character Input Dial 124 Continuous Hit Key (Second Selection Means) 125 Enter Key 126 Clear Key 127 Mode key 128 Mail key 129 Phonebook dial 130 Start key 131 Stop key 132 Phone dial key F1 to F4 Function key 133 Display processing unit 134 Text editing unit 135 CPU 137 RAM 138 ROM 139 Communication unit 141 Cursor 142 Input navigation 143 Input candidate characters 143 144 Operation menu 151 Rotation detection roller 151b Rotation detection roller 152 Support roller 152b Support roller 153 Rotary encoder 53b Rotary encoder 154 Metal dome contact 154b Metal dome contact 155 Fixed contact 155b Fixed contact 156 Hinge 156b Hinge 157 Projection 157b Projection 158 Dial base 160 Mobile phone body 161 Power key 162 Call key 163 Menu key 164 Cursor key 165 Confirm Key 166 Mode key 167 Clear key 168 Character input dial 169 Display 170 CPU 171 ROM 172 RAM 173 Display control unit 174 Text editing unit 175 Microphone 176 Speaker 177 Communication unit 181 First input navigation 182 Second input navigation 183 Input candidate character 184 Cursor 190 Remote control 191 Television 192 Head mount display 200 Camera body 2 2 Shutter button 202 Zoom dial 203 Viewfinder 323 Character input dial 460 Data input terminal main unit 461 Power key 463 Menu key 464 Cursor key 465 Confirm key 466 Mode key 467 Clear key 469 Display 470 CPU 471 ROM 472 RAM 473 Display control unit 474 Text editing Unit 477 communication unit 481 first input navigation 482 second input navigation 483 input candidate character 484 cursor

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification FI theme coat ゛ (Reference) H04M 1/23 F term (Reference) 5B020 AA05 CC12 DD05 FF17 FF53 GG05 GG13 5E501 AA04 AB03 BA05 CA04 CB20 EA02 EB05 FA13 FA23 FA42 5K023 AA07 BB11 DD06 DD08 GG01 GG04 HH01 HH07 LL06 5K027 AA11 BB02 CC08 FF22 MM17

Claims (65)

[Claims] 1. A plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed according to a first operation of a user,
Display control means for controlling display of a display device so that at least one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and the display device when a second operation is performed by a user Determining means for determining a predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed on the screen displayed by the predetermined display method as a character symbol to be input. apparatus. 2. The data input device according to claim 1, further comprising a character input dial that is rotated by being operated by a user, and the rotation is the first operation. 3. The data input device according to claim 2, wherein the character input dial has a structure capable of being depressed, and a depression of the character input dial by a user is the second operation. 4. A character selection dial which is constituted by a ring-shaped rotating body and which is rotated by being operated by a user, and which is separate from the character selecting dial, and which is a character confirmation provided at the center of the ring of the rotating body. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a key, wherein the first operation is a rotation operation of the character selection dial by a user, and the second operation is a depression operation of the character confirmation key. Data entry device. 5. A first rotating member operated by a user.
And a second selection unit that is turned on by being pressed by a user, wherein the first operation is an operation of the first and second selection units by a user, and the first selection The at least one character symbol is selected according to the rotation of the means, and each time the second selection means is turned on, one of the plurality of character symbols belonging to the selected at least one character symbol is cyclically rotated. The data input device according to claim 1, wherein the data input device is selected. 6. The data input device according to claim 5, wherein the second operation is a rotation of the first selection unit performed after the second selection unit is turned on. 7. The data input device according to claim 5, wherein said first selecting means and said second selecting means are constituted by the same operation part. 8. A first selecting means rotatable in a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction, the first selecting means being rotated by being operated by a user, and the second selecting means being turned on by being pressed by the user. The first operation is a rotation operation of the first selection unit by a user, and the at least one character symbol is cyclically selected according to rotation of the first selection unit in a first rotation direction. And one of a plurality of character symbols belonging to the selected at least one character symbol is cyclically selected according to the rotation of the first selection means in the second rotation direction. The data input device according to claim 1, wherein 9. The data input device according to claim 8, wherein the second operation is to turn on the second selection unit. 10. The data input device according to claim 8, wherein said first selecting means and said second selecting means are constituted by the same operation part. 11. The display method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined display method is a method of changing at least one of a size, a font, and a color of a character symbol.
0. The data input device according to any one of 0. 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein one of a plurality of character symbols belonging to the at least one character symbol is displayed along with the at least one character symbol. The data input device according to any one of claims 1 to 11. 13. The character symbol is at least one of a kana character, a Roman character, and a number, and the predetermined arrangement order is an alphabetical order if the character symbol is a kana character, and the character symbol is a Roman character 13. The data input device according to claim 1, wherein the data input is alphabetical, and if the character is a numeral, the data is ascending or descending. 14. At least an operation unit for performing the first and second operations and the display device are arranged on an operation surface of the data input device, and the operation unit is a central portion of the operation surface of the data input device. The data input device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the data input device is arranged in: 15. A plurality of character symbols in each group among a plurality of groups are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order in response to a first operation of a user, and each of the plurality of character symbols is displayed. Display control means for displaying one on a display device so that one is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and the predetermined display on a screen displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user Determining means for determining a character symbol displayed by the method as a character symbol to be input. 16. The data input device according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of character symbols are at least alphabets, and the plurality of groups are uppercase and lowercase groups. 17. A plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed according to a first operation of a user, and one of the plurality of character symbols is a predetermined display different from others. Display control means for displaying on a display device so as to be displayed by a method, character symbols displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device when there is a second operation by the user, A data input device comprising: a determination unit for determining a character to be input. 18. A plurality of upper character symbols constituting an upper hierarchy are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order in response to a first operation of a user, and at least one of the upper character symbols is displayed. Display control for displaying each one of the plurality of lower-level character symbols belonging to the at least one upper-level character symbol displayed on the display device. A data input device comprising: means for determining a lower character symbol displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user as a character symbol to be input. 19. The apparatus further comprises: a first selection unit that is rotated by being operated by a user; and a second selection unit that is turned on by being pressed by the user, wherein the first operation is performed by the user. Operation of the second selection means, wherein at least one upper character symbol to be displayed by the predetermined display method is selected according to the rotation of the first selection means, and each time the second selection means is turned on. 19. The data input device according to claim 18, wherein one of a plurality of lower character symbols belonging to the selected at least one upper character symbol is cyclically selected. 20. The data input device according to claim 19, wherein the second operation is a rotation of the first selection unit performed after the second selection unit is turned on. 21. The first selecting means comprises a ring-shaped rotating body, and the second selecting means is provided separately from the rotating body and provided at a ring center of the rotating body. 20. The data input device according to claim 19, comprising a push switch having a push-back force. 22. The first and second selection means are constituted by a rotating body having a push-back force in the direction of a rotation axis, and the first selection means is operated by rotation of the rotating body, and 20. The data input device according to claim 19, wherein the second selecting means operates by moving the rotating body in a rotation axis direction. 23. A first rotatable clockwise and counterclockwise direction, which is rotated by being operated by a user.
And a second selection unit that is pressed by a user and turned on, wherein the first operation is a rotation operation of the first selection unit by a user, and the first selection unit According to the rotation in the first rotation direction, at least one upper character symbol to be displayed in the predetermined display method is selected, and in accordance with the rotation of the first selection means in the second rotation direction. 19. The data input device according to claim 18, wherein one of a plurality of lower character symbols belonging to the selected at least one upper character symbol is cyclically selected. 24. The data input device according to claim 23, wherein said second operation is to turn on said second selecting means. 25. The first selecting means is constituted by a ring-shaped rotating body, and the second selecting means is provided separately from the rotating body and provided at a ring center of the rotating body. 24. The data input device according to claim 23, further comprising a push switch having a push-back force. 26. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the first and second selection means are constituted by a rotating body having a push-back force in a direction of a rotation axis. 24. The data input device according to claim 23, wherein the second selecting means operates by moving the rotator in the rotation axis direction. 27. The character symbol is at least a kana character, and the plurality of upper character symbols are at least the first sound of a consonant part of the Japanese syllabary, "a, ka, sa, ta, na". 19. The data input device according to claim 18, wherein: 28. The data input device according to claim 27, wherein the lower-order character symbols are at least a first sound to a fifth sound of a corresponding consonant part. 29. The method according to claim 29, wherein the plurality of character symbols are at least Roman characters, and at least one upper character symbol respectively displayed by the predetermined display method is configured by a plurality of Roman characters among Roman characters arranged in alphabetical order. 19. The data input device according to claim 18, wherein 30. The data input device according to claim 29, wherein the lower-order character symbol is constituted by at least upper and lower case letters in a plurality of corresponding Roman characters. 31. A voice synthesizing unit, further comprising: an output unit that converts a character symbol determined as a character symbol to be input by the determining unit into a voice by the voice synthesizing unit and outputs the voice. The data input device according to claim 18. 32. A data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, wherein a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed in accordance with a first operation by a user. A display control step of controlling display of the display device so that at least one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and the display device when a second operation is performed by a user And determining a predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed on the screen displayed by the predetermined display method as a character symbol to be input. Method. 33. The data input device further comprises a character input dial that can be operated and rotated and depressed by a user, wherein the rotation of the character input dial is the first operation and the character input dial is 33. The data input method according to claim 32, wherein the pressing of the key is the second operation. 34. The data input device, comprising: a ring-shaped rotating body, a character selection dial that is rotated by being operated by a user, and a separate body from the character selection dial, and a ring center of the rotating body. Wherein the first operation is a rotation operation of the character selection dial by a user, and the second operation is a pressing operation of the character confirmation key. 33. The data input method according to claim 32, wherein: 35. The data input device, further comprising: a first selection unit that is rotated by being operated by a user; and a second selection unit that is turned on by being pressed by a user, wherein the first operation is performed by a user. The at least one character symbol is selected according to the rotation of the first selection means, and the selection is made every time the second selection means is turned on. 33. The data input method according to claim 32, wherein one of a plurality of character symbols belonging to at least one character symbol is cyclically selected. 36. The data input method according to claim 35, wherein the second operation is a rotation of the first selection unit performed after the second selection unit is turned on. 37. A first selection means, wherein the data input device is rotatable in a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction, and is rotated by being operated by a user, and a second selection means is turned on by being pressed by a user. Means, wherein the first operation is a rotation operation of the first selection means by a user, and the at least one character is responsive to rotation of the first selection means in a first rotation direction. A symbol is cyclically selected, and one of a plurality of character symbols belonging to the selected at least one character symbol is cyclically selected according to rotation of the first selecting means in the second rotation direction. 33. The data input method according to claim 32, wherein the method is selected. 38. The data input method according to claim 37, wherein the second operation is to turn on the second selecting means. 39. A data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, wherein a plurality of character symbols in each of the plurality of groups are arranged in a predetermined arrangement order in accordance with a first operation of a user. A display control step of displaying each of the plurality of character symbols on the display device such that each one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and a second operation by the user is performed. Determining a character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device at the time of occurrence as a character symbol to be input. 40. The data input method according to claim 39, wherein the plurality of character symbols are at least alphabets, and the plurality of groups are uppercase and lowercase groups. 41. A data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, wherein a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order are displayed in accordance with a first operation by a user; A display control step of causing the display device to display each one of the plurality of character symbols so as to be displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and displaying on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user And determining a character symbol displayed on the screen by the predetermined display method as a character symbol to be input. 42. A data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, wherein a plurality of upper character symbols constituting an upper hierarchy are arranged in a predetermined arrangement order in response to a first operation by a user. And at least one of each of the plurality of upper-level character symbols is displayed.
Are displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others,
A display control step of causing the display device to display one of a plurality of lower-order character symbols belonging to the displayed at least one upper-order character symbol; and when a second operation is performed by a user. Determining a lower-level character symbol displayed on the display device as a character symbol to be input. 43. The data input device, further comprising: a first selection unit that is rotated by being operated by a user; and a second selection unit that is turned on by being pressed by a user, wherein the first operation is performed by a user. Operating the first and second selecting means, and at least one upper character symbol to be displayed in the predetermined display method is selected according to the rotation of the first selecting means, 43. The data input method according to claim 42, wherein one of a plurality of lower-order character symbols belonging to the selected at least one upper-order character symbol is cyclically selected every time the selection unit is turned on. 44. The data input method according to claim 43, wherein the second operation is a rotation of the first selecting means performed after the second selecting means is turned on. 45. A first selection means, wherein the data input device is rotatable in a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction, and is rotated by being operated by a user, and a second selection means is turned on by being pressed by a user. The first operation is a rotation operation of the first selection unit by a user, and the predetermined display is performed according to rotation of the first selection unit in a first rotation direction. At least one upper character symbol to be displayed in the method is selected, and a plurality of lower character characters belonging to the selected at least one upper character symbol are responsive to rotation of the first selecting means in the second rotation direction. 43. A method according to claim 42, wherein one of the character symbols is selected cyclically. 46. The data input method according to claim 45, wherein said second operation is to turn on said second selecting means. 47. A data input method applied to a data input device having a display device, wherein the data input method is stored as a program.
In a storage medium readable by a computer, the data input method displays a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order in accordance with a first operation of a user, A display control step of controlling the display of the display device so that at least one is displayed by a predetermined display method different from the other, and a display control unit that controls the display on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user A determination step of determining a predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method as a character symbol to be input. 48. The data input device further includes a character input dial that can be operated and rotated and depressed by a user, and the rotation of the character input dial becomes the first operation, and the character input dial is used. 48. The storage medium according to claim 47, wherein the pressing of the key is the second operation. 49. The data input device, comprising: a ring-shaped rotating body, a character selection dial that is rotated by being operated by a user, and a separate body from the character selection dial, and a ring center of the rotating body. Wherein the first operation is a rotation operation of the character selection dial by a user, and the second operation is a pressing operation of the character confirmation key. 48. The storage medium according to claim 47, wherein: 50. The data input device, further comprising: a first selection unit that is rotated by being operated by a user; and a second selection unit that is turned on by being pressed by a user, wherein the first operation is performed by a user. The at least one character symbol is selected according to the rotation of the first selection means, and the selection is made every time the second selection means is turned on. 48. The storage medium according to claim 47, wherein one of a plurality of character symbols belonging to at least one character symbol is cyclically selected. 51. The storage medium according to claim 50, wherein said second operation is a rotation of said first selection means performed after said second selection means is turned on. 52. A first selection means, wherein said data input device is rotatable in a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction, and is rotated by being operated by a user; and a second selection means is turned on by being pressed by a user. Means, wherein the first operation is a rotation operation of the first selection means by a user, and the at least one character is responsive to rotation of the first selection means in a first rotation direction. A symbol is cyclically selected, and one of a plurality of character symbols belonging to the selected at least one character symbol is cyclically selected according to rotation of the first selecting means in the second rotation direction. 48. The storage medium according to claim 47, wherein the storage medium is selected. 53. The storage medium according to claim 52, wherein said second operation is to turn on said second selecting means. 54. A data input method applied to a data input device having a display device, wherein the data input method is stored as a program.
In a computer-readable storage medium, the data input method displays a plurality of character symbols in each of a plurality of groups in a predetermined arrangement order in accordance with a first operation of a user. A display control step of displaying each one of the plurality of character symbols on the display device so as to be displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others, and a display device when a second operation is performed by a user And determining a character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed as the character symbol to be input. 55. The storage medium according to claim 54, wherein said plurality of character symbols are at least alphabets, and said plurality of groups are uppercase and lowercase groups. 56. A data input method applied to a data input device having a display device, wherein the data input method is stored as a program.
In a storage medium readable by a computer, the data input method displays a plurality of character symbols arranged in a predetermined arrangement order in accordance with a first operation of a user, A display control step of causing the display device to display each one so as to be displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others, and the predetermined control method is performed on a screen displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user. And determining a character symbol displayed by the display method as a character symbol to be input. 57. A data input method applied to a data input device having a display device, wherein the data input method is stored as a program.
In a storage medium readable by a computer, the data input method displays a plurality of upper character symbols constituting an upper hierarchy in a predetermined arrangement order in accordance with a first operation of a user. At least one of the superscripts of
Are displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others,
A display control step of causing the display device to display each one of the plurality of lower-order character symbols belonging to the displayed at least one upper-order character symbol; and when a second operation by the user is performed. Determining a lower character symbol displayed on the display device as a character symbol to be input. 58. The data input device, further comprising: a first selection unit that is rotated by being operated by a user; and a second selection unit that is turned on by being pressed by a user, wherein the first operation is performed by a user. Operating the first and second selecting means, and at least one upper character symbol to be displayed in the predetermined display method is selected according to the rotation of the first selecting means, The storage medium according to claim 57, wherein one of a plurality of lower character symbols belonging to the selected at least one upper character symbol is cyclically selected each time the selection unit is turned on. 59. The storage medium according to claim 58, wherein said second operation is a rotation of said first selecting means performed after said second selecting means is turned on. 60. A first selection means, wherein the data input device is rotatable in a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction, and is rotated by being operated by a user, and a second selection means is turned on by being pressed by a user. The first operation is a rotation operation of the first selection unit by a user, and the predetermined display is performed according to rotation of the first selection unit in a first rotation direction. At least one upper character symbol to be displayed in the method is selected, and a plurality of lower character characters belonging to the selected at least one upper character symbol are responsive to rotation of the first selecting means in the second rotation direction. The storage medium of claim 57, wherein one of the character symbols is selected cyclically. 61. The storage medium according to claim 60, wherein said second operation is to turn on said second selecting means. 62. A program for executing a data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, wherein the data input method includes a plurality of data input methods arranged in a predetermined arrangement order according to a first operation of a user. And a display control step of controlling the display of the display device so that at least one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other. Determining a predetermined one of the at least one character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on the screen displayed on the display device when the above operation is performed, as a character symbol to be input And a program comprising: 63. A program capable of executing a data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, wherein the data input method is configured to execute each of a plurality of groups according to a first operation of a user. A plurality of character symbols are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order, and each one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed on the display device so as to be displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others. A control step, and a determination step of determining a character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on a screen displayed on the display device when a second operation is performed by a user as a character symbol to be input. A program characterized by having. 64. A program capable of executing a data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, wherein the data input method is arranged in a predetermined arrangement order according to a first operation of a user. A display control step of displaying a plurality of character symbols on the display device such that each one of the plurality of character symbols is displayed in a predetermined display method different from the other, and Determining a character symbol displayed by the predetermined display method on a screen displayed on the display device when an operation is performed, as a character symbol to be input. 65. A program capable of executing a data input method applied to a data input device provided with a display device, the data input method comprising: a plurality of upper layers constituting a higher hierarchy according to a first operation by a user; Upper character symbols are displayed in a predetermined arrangement order, and at least one of the plurality of upper character symbols is displayed.
Are displayed in a predetermined display method different from the others,
A display control step of causing the display device to display one of a plurality of lower-order character symbols belonging to the displayed at least one upper-order character symbol; and when a second operation is performed by a user. Determining a lower-level character symbol displayed on the display device as a character symbol to be input.